When Wilshere takes charge of Luton for the first time in Saturday’s home game against Mansfield Town, he will be up against a manager in Nigel Clough, who has been in a dugout on more than 1,300 occasions.

And Hatters chief executive Gary Sweet believes that is part of the reason why bringing in former Charlton boss Chris Powell to work alongside Wilshere was necessary.

“Jack went through four stages of interview, with 16 pairs of eyes looking at him, who came to the same conclusion. But we really felt we needed a very experienced number two who could bring a stabilising influence and knowhow,” he told BBC Three Counties Radio.

“The model is the one we feel is right – where we have energy, enthusiasm, different ideas, nimbleness, boldness, bravery, all of these things – but stabilised by Chris, who will give a tap on the shoulder and a little bit of advice here and there.”

Powell himself had no doubts about accepting his role after learning that Wilshere was the man Luton wanted.

“He’s a young coach, he’s modern, progressive, and his understanding – based on the discussions we’ve had – he gets it already,” Powell said.

“Everyone thinks you have an idea of the way you want to play and you do it straight away. No, you’ve got to be understanding of the situation, of where the team’s at, what league you’re in and what’s required.

“Then, over time, you drip-feed your principles and your concept of what you want to see every time the team plays – he understands that and I think my role will be to help him, support him, facilitate what’s needed alongside the other staff.”