Macdonald scored 31 during 1970–71 as Luton finished sixth in the Second Division, and was sold to Newcastle United at the end of the season to ease the club's financial worries.

After failing to progress past the group stage of the Texaco Cup, Luton began the campaign badly.

Starting with a 1–0 home win over Derby County, Luton suddenly won three successive matches and reduced the gap to five points.

A disappointing home loss at the hands of Burnley sent Luton straight back to the bottom of the league, and put them six points behind 19th placed Chelsea.

A 4–1 victory at Birmingham put Luton level on points with Tottenham, with the North London team ahead on goal average.

Manchester City would visit Luton on 26 April for their final match, while Tottenham would have to travel to Highbury to face their rivals Arsenal before entertaining Leeds United two days later.