Jack Wilshere achieved his first managerial title as Luton Town triumphed over Stockport 3-1 in the EFL Trophy final.
The former Arsenal and England midfielder, who previously won the FA Cup twice as a player, secured silverware in his inaugural season at the helm with goals from Emilio Lawrence and a brace from Nahki Wells.
Wilshere’s goal is to restore the club’s fortunes after they suffered consecutive relegations, dropping from the Premier League in 2024 to a 10th place finish in League One.
Luton’s 10th appearance at Wembley added to their history, providing another treasured moment alongside their 1988 League Cup victory against Arsenal and the Championship play-off final win over Coventry in 2023.
For Stockport, it was yet another disappointing day at England’s iconic venue, as they have only managed one win in seven visits and have not defeated Luton in any of their last 18 encounters since 1968.
Additionally, Stockport has now lost all three EFL Trophy finals they have participated in, including those in 1992 and 1993.
Referee Martin Coy faced a significant decision early on, choosing not to award Luton a penalty just two minutes into the match.
Isaiah Jones was pushed from behind by Josh Stokes and fell to the ground, with replays showing there was considerable contact.
Despite this, Stockport took the lead in the 11th minute with Adama Sidibeh, who sprinted onto a through ball from Odin Bailey, outpaced defender Mads Andersen, and struck a shot that looped over goalkeeper James Shea.
This was Sidibeh’s eighth goal for Stockport after his transfer from St Johnstone in January, marking a streak of scoring in each of his last four games.
– EFL Championship playoffs to expand to six teams
Luton responded when Stockport’s Ethan Pye deflected a header against his own post while attempting to intercept a cross from Kal Naismith.
Veteran striker Wells, aged 35, then put Luton ahead in the 39th minute, skillfully controlling Naismith’s cross before turning and firing past Addai.
Luton nearly made it three just before halftime when Jones broke through, but Ben Osborn executed a crucial defensive tackle to deny him.
The second half was less eventful compared to the first, but Clark came close to scoring a third for Luton, which eventually materialized in the first of 10 minutes added time.