McCourt impressed by Jones' impact

When Jones got the job earlier this month, McCourt was already well aware of the former Brighton & Hove Albion coach’s ability on the training field, having spent last season with him at the Seagulls.

The Northern Irishman believes he has all the attributes to be a top manager too, saying: “He got the job for a couple of games (at Brighton), did really well and I think they half flirted with the idea of giving it to him full time.

“I only knew him as a coach but he was an outstanding coach, everybody will tell you that.

“Management’s a different game, but he never ever showed me anything that meant I didn’t think he would be a good manager.

“He’s come in, he’s tough when he needs to be, lets you know exactly what he’s feeling and so far so good, four points, two clean sheets, you can’t complain.”

Jones had been one of the main reasons behind McCourt’s decision to join Championship side too as he added: “He was a big part of me going to Brighton.

“I spoke to him a few times in the summer, he was pushing, Sami Hyppia (then Albion boss), who wasn’t quite sure I don’t think who I was, as I spent quite a lot of my career in Scotland.

“But the manager now pushed him and got me in the door and he’s come here and I know a lot about him.

“He’s a very, very, very good coach and I think we’ll get better too.”

With McCourt back in the side and opening his account for Luton in the 2-0 win at Mansfield on Saturday, Jones himself is expecting plenty more from the talented wideman going forward.

He added: “Paddy has an ability, I know Paddy very well. Paddy now has to prove that he now wants to play for Luton, it’s that simple.”