Kent Karlsen

Kent Karlsen

Looking for strength in the spine of his team, Luton manager Ricky Hill went to Scandinavia for a centre-half who had served a solid apprenticeship in the Norwegian Premier League.

An Under-21 international, Kent’s five years with Valerenga brought considerable success, including a Norwegian F.A. Cup winners medal and Hill moved swiftly to sign the player in November 2000 after a short trial period.

Sadly, Kent’s stay at Kenilworth Road was short as Hill was dismissed shortly after and new boss Joe Kinnear had his own preferences for central defence.

Kent left Luton after only six League appearances and returned to Norway where he played for Asele and FK Tonsberg before becoming a players agent.