Luton Town boss Rob Edwards is counting on Ross Barkley lifting standards.

Former Chelsea midfielder has joined Luton on a free transfer from Nice.

“When we spoke to him, he told us that he wants to enjoy his football and we can give him that platform," said Edwards. “He's under no illusions – he knows he's got to graft and work hard but everyone I've spoken to has had nothing but good things to say: that he's always the best trainer, the hardest worker – and we want him to come in and set those standards with us.

“What he's achieved so far in his career – already at 29 – is impressive and this shows that he's not afraid to come to a so-called less glamourous place. We need him and he needs us so it's a good time and a perfect fit.

“What it shows is the ambition he has. He is hungry and has the desire to help us hopefully achieve our goals, and also from a personal point of view, there's a platform here to maybe get back to where he sees he should be.

“A signing like this is great for the group, too. I've seen over the past couple of weeks that whenever a new player has arrived the levels of the group has increased so I hope this will drive the group again."