Preview: Luton Town vs. Swansea City - prediction, team news, lineups

Meanwhile, Swansea travel to Kenilworth Road sitting 11 points adrift of the playoffs with 12 matches remaining, effectively making this a must-win fixture for the visitors.

Match preview

Luton have lost their way since suffering defeat to Grimsby Town on February 7, putting together a run of just one win from six matches in all competitions.

However, having edged out Birmingham City last weekend, the Hatters pulled off a stunning comeback versus Millwall in midweek, battling back from two goals down to secure a 2-2 draw.

Salvaging a share of the spoils prevented Millwall from moving into fourth spot and kept the Lions level on points with Luton, who occupy the final playoff place.

With a five-point gap having been opened up over ninth position, Rob Edwards will feel that fewer clubs are realistic contenders for the top six than they were a few weeks ago.

Nevertheless, he will also appreciate that one defeat will see Luton dragged back into the pack, something which is plausible when they have won just five of their 17 home matches this campaign.

From Swansea's perspective, they are almost facing a scenario where they have little but pride to play for after a dismal run of form since November.

Just three wins have been posted in 17 matches during that period, their latest setback occurring on Monday as they were held to a 1-1 draw at home to Rotherham United.

Although Russell Martin is highly-regarded as a head coach, he will recognise that something has to give sooner rather than later, whether that be an improved run or a parting of the ways.

On a positive note, Swansea are 12 points clear of the relegation zone, already leaving the club on the brink of guaranteeing their second-tier status for another season.

Luton Town Championship form:

W

D

D

L

W

D

Luton Town form (all competitions):

L

D

D

L

W

D

Swansea City Championship form:

L

L

W

L

L

D

Team News

Despite netting the equaliser versus Millwall, Luke Berry may have to make do with another spot on the Luton substitutes' bench.

With Reece Burke and Dan Potts again likely to miss out in defence, Edwards may stick with the same starting lineup from Tuesday night.

Martin must decide whether to stay with a 4-4-2 formation for the second game in succession, a change in tactics which had mixed success.

Regardless of the strategy, Jay Fulton and Olivier Ntcham are both options for Martin if he wishes to freshen up his team.

Liam Cullen may also get the nod over Oliver Cooper, who was ineffective alongside Joel Piroe versus the Millers.

Luton Town possible starting lineup:

Horvath; Osho, Lockyer, Bell; Drameh, Nakamba, Mpanzu, Doughty; Clark; Morris, Adebayo

Swansea City possible starting lineup:

Fisher; Latibeaudiere, Cabango, Wood, Manning; Whittaker, Grimes, Fulton, Sorinola; Piroe, Cullen

We say: Luton Town 2-1 Swansea City

Luton's previous high level has dropped off recently, leaving Edwards desperately in search of more consistency. While we do not expect the Hatters to have things all their own way on Saturday, they should have enough in the tank to edge this encounter by the odd goal in three.

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