Luton endured a baptism of fire in the Premier League but Alfie Doughty's form is helping turn their fortunes around.

Last season's Championship play-off winners lost their first four matches and were written off by many as relegation fodder.

But things have picked up for Rob Edwards' team, following a 1-1 draw against Wolves and a hard-earned 2-1 victory at Everton last time out.

Ahead of tonight's clash with Burnley, we reflect on Doughty's eye-catching performances for the Hatters.

Creator

Doughty was particularly impressive against Everton, providing the assist for Carlton Morris' goal with an excellent free-kick delivery into the box.

The 23-year-old left wing-back was the most creative player on the pitch, conjuring six chances and attempting 10 crosses.

Reflecting on the win, he said: "We know what we are capable of as players, everyone knows that.

"Everyone can talk about us but all you have to see is that performance out there today — Goodison is not an easy place to come to, so for us to do that today was brilliant."

More to come

After joining Luton from Stoke in the summer of 2022, Doughty enjoyed a superb first season with the club.

He provided five league assists from the left flank and played a vital role in the Hatters' success in the Championship.

But manager Edwards believes there is plenty of room for further development.

Speaking back in March, he said: "He's continuing to shine for us and long may that continue but there's more to come from Alfie.

"I want that to be a real positive — if he's listening to this as well, there's more to come from you, Alf, but in a real positive way.

"We really like him here, he's a cheeky lad in a good way, he's a lovable rogue, a really talented footballer."

Key player

No Luton player has created more chances in the Premier League this season than Doughty (12).

He also ranks first in the team for crosses completed (12) and fourth for completed passes into the final third (31).

As Luton look to adapt to a higher level and score goals against sterner defences, Doughty's ability to get the ball into the box with accuracy is invaluable.

He plays his part defensively too, regaining possession 15 times in the defensive third of the pitch and winning six aerial duels so far this term.

Progress

The key now for Luton and Doughty is to build on last weekend's victory, which is something the former Charlton youngster is acutely aware of.

He said: "It [the Everton win] meant so much to everyone and now our focus turns to Burnley on Tuesday.

"The win was coming, I think a lot of people could see it. The performances have been there regardless of what the score was — from the Brighton game to now it's completely different."

For a team aiming to stay in the Premier League, fine margins are key — and Doughty showed against Everton that he can be a difference maker.