Former Arsenal and England midfielder Jack Wilshere has been named manager of League One side Luton Town.
The 33-year-old succeeds Matt Bloomfield, who was sacked earlier this month having spent less than a year in charge at Kenilworth Road.
It is Wilshere’s first full-time managerial role, taking over a Luton side 11th in the third tier following back-to-back relegations.
He beat Leyton Orient boss Richie Wellens to the role and is believed to have signed a three-year deal.
Chris Powell has also joined Luton as Wilshere’s assistant – the former England left-back had been at Walsall for just two weeks as interim first-team coach, coming in to cover for Gary Waddock as he recovers from ankle surgery.
“It’s a huge honour and a privilege to be named Luton Town manager,” Wilshere told the club’s official site, having left the Hatters aged nine to join Arsenal.
“It feels like a full-circle moment for me. I was eight when I first came to Luton as a boy, so I guess you could say it’s fate that my first full-time club managerial position is at this club.
“This club’s story inspires me. Built on belief, unity, and hard work.
“The club have shown incredible character on and off the pitch in recent times, and I’m honoured to lead to take the responsibility to lead this group into the future.”