MUST READ: Ex-Barnsley Talented star admits ‘challenging’ debut season at Kenilworth Road didn’t go as he wanted

Luton defender Mads Andersen has acknowledged that his debut season at Kenilworth Road was more challenging than he had anticipated. The 26-year-old made the move to the Hatters from Barnsley in the summer, with high expectations after being named in the League One Team of the Year while at Barnsley and playing 42 matches.

Andersen aimed to establish himself as a key player in Luton’s defense, but his start did not meet his initial aspirations. Despite his eagerness to make an impact, the former Danish U19 center back faced difficulties, starting in four of the club’s first eight Premier League games and scoring Luton’s first home goal of the season with a close-range header in a 2-1 loss to West Ham United.

After starting to settle into his new environment, Andersen suffered a hamstring injury during the 1-0 loss to Tottenham Hotspur at Kenilworth Road in October.

This setback sidelined him until December, when he made substitute appearances in the 1-0 win against Newcastle United and the 3-2 victory over Sheffield United on Boxing Day.

After being named as a substitute in several matches, Andersen was struck by another injury, this time to his calf. Despite seeking treatment in Denmark in March, the injury kept him out for the remainder of the season, preventing him from contributing to Luton’s efforts to avoid relegation from the Premier League.

Andersen played only eight matches throughout the season, but he is now focused on making a positive impact in Luton’s defense as they aim to secure promotion from the Championship next season. On Instagram, he expressed his gratitude to the fans for their support throughout the season, saying: “This season did not go as I had hoped, with many injuries making it a challenging journey. However, I am proud to have scored the club’s first home goal in the Premier League. Thank you for your unwavering support throughout the season; you fans have been unbelievable. I’m excited to see you all for the 24/25 season at the Kenny.”