Kodua Joins Luton On Loan From West Ham

Attacker Gideon Kodua is the latest new face to join the Hatters dressing room ahead of the new season.

The 20-year-old forward joins on a season-long loan with an option to buy from West Ham United, becoming the eighth new arrival at Kenilworth Road this summer.

Kodua, who can play in a variety of central or wide attacking areas, is no stranger to Matt Bloomfield, whom he links up with for a third time, having twice joined Wycombe on loan over the past two seasons.

Manager Matt Bloomfield said: “He’s a boy I love; he’s got a steel, a resilience and a determination about him.

“He came through as captain of West Ham’s Under-18s and we signed him twice before, so it stands to reason we think a lot of him.

“He offers options both at wing-back, in attacking wide areas and in a high 10 position, and brings good dribbling ability while linking play.

“He’s got pace and power, he’s a great lad, and he will be someone who our fans will love watching.”

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After completing his medical, Gideon spoke to LTFC+.

He said: “I thought a lot about my next move and narrowed it down, and this was the best option in terms of development and where I want to be.

“There are good players here, a good manager and a good fanbase, so it was an easy decision.

“Obviously, the manager has played a big part. We met when I scored against Wycombe and a couple of days later he signed me.

“I’m a winner, and so is he, and he can see the direction I want to go – which is to the top.

“The season starts in just under two weeks, but I’m ready. I wish it could start now because I want to hit the ground running.”

Born in London, Gideon came through the ranks at West Ham and captained the Hammers’ Under-18 side to FA Youth Cup glory in 2023, scoring in the final at the Emirates Stadium with a fabulous strike from distance.

His efforts in the 2022/23 season were rewarded with the attacker’s first professional deal before he was then voted the Irons’ outstanding scholar and awarded the Dylan Tombides Award.

The following campaign saw him become a regular for the Irons’ Under-21s, scoring seven times in 17 appearances – including a goal against Wycombe in the EFL Trophy in January 2024.

That was enough to convince Bloomfield to bring him to Adams Park, and he ended the season with 10 appearances under his belt.

Still learning his trade, the youngster rejoined Wycombe last season and played his part in the Chairboys reaching the League One play-off semi-finals.

He scored his first senior goal in Wycombe’s 3-2 win at Burton in October and went on to make a total of 25 appearances in all competitions.

Welcome to Luton Town, Gideon!

Lutontown.co.uk