Source: Team_Talk
Nicholls targets legendary status
Luton began the season with a 30-point penalty for financial indiscretions and must overturn an 11-point deficit with six games remaining to avoid dropping out of the Football League.
But Nicholls insists Johnstone's Paint Trophy success could push Luton to a seemingly-impossible rescue of their League Two status.
"If we can stay up and win at Wembley then these players will go down as legends at this club," said Nicholls.
The 30-year-old former Wigan, Leeds and Preston midfielder returned to Kenilworth Road last summer.
In his first six-season spell with the Hatters, Nicholls led the club to the League One title in 2005.
Having experienced the highs of the past and endured the lows of this campaign, Nicholls is determined to finish the season with a flourish.
"It's been mentally tough," he said. "Being on minus 30 was a huge blow.
"But these players have been a credit to this club. We have done our utmost to try and keep our league status and have also got to a cup final.
"The penalty drives us on. We've hardly spoken about relegation all season and have focused on getting points on the board.
"Now we move on to the cup final."
Mick Harford's side edged through to the Trophy final with a 4-3 penalty shootout win over Brighton in southern section final on February 17.
Luton have suffered three league defeats in the 11 fixtures since that victory, including Tuesday's 4-2 loss at Rotherham.
However, Nicholls is adamant the Hatters' unity can see them emerge victorious.
"I just hope that we can enjoy the day and do the business and win a cup final," he added. "I've led this side to two promotions and to be a cup winner for Luton Town is a great thing to have on your CV.
"I am part of a team here and that is what I am all about. There is no 'I' in team.
"I love this club and can't wait."
Scunthorpe defeated Rotherham to win the northern section of the competition and have won their last three league games, scoring eight without conceding in the process.
That run has maintained the Iron's hopes of a swift return to the
Championship, but first manager Nigel Adkins is looking to get his hands on a trophy.
Adkins has told his charges to enjoy the occasion, but anticipates a difficult game.
He said: "We needed to get the balance right between our league campaign and the Johnstone's Paint.
"The focus has been exceptional. We can now look forward.
"The challenge now is can they do it in the big arena? Can they win the game?
"It's a nice challenge for them but this is going to be one hard game."
