As Newport County get set to lock horns with MK Dons on Friday afternoon, we take a look back at players who have represented both clubs.
Scott Twine
One of the most exciting players to have donned the colours of both Newport County and MK Dons is Scott Twine — a talent known for his spectacular goals and game-changing performances.
Twine began his professional career at Swindon Town, rising through the youth ranks and making 50 appearances between 2016 and 2021. In September 2020, he joined Newport County on a season-long loan, and it was at Rodney Parade that his reputation began to soar — particularly for his prowess from long range.
His stunning goal in a 2–1 defeat to Cambridge United in October 2020 won the EFL League Two Goal of the Monthand became a defining moment of his loan spell. Twine finished the campaign with 14 goals in 49 appearances across both clubs and was named Newport County’s Young Player of the Season.
In the summer of 2021, he signed for MK Dons, and his debut season was nothing short of sensational. He scored a free-kick on debut against Bolton Wanderers, hit a hat-trick against Fleetwood Town, and capped the season with four goals in a 5–0 thrashing of Plymouth Argyle on the final day.
Twine’s 20 goals and 13 assists earned him MK Dons’ Player of the Year, the EFL League One Player of the Season, and a place in the League One Team of the Season, cementing his status as one of the division’s standout stars.
Cameron Norman
Another key figure to have worn both shirts is dependable full-back Cameron Norman.
Norman joined Newport County in June 2021, following an impressive stint at Walsall, and immediately became a fan favourite. He started in the season opener against Oldham Athletic and went on to become a vital part of the Exiles' defence, earning back-to-back Player of the Year awards in 2021–22 and 2022–23.
Following a successful two-year spell, Norman made the switch to MK Dons in the summer of 2023, signing on a free transfer after their relegation to League Two. He remained a consistent and reliable presence in their back line throughout the 2023–24 campaign, showcasing the same leadership and composure that endeared him to Newport supporters.
Regan Poole
Regan Poole’s journey through the Football League has seen him leave a lasting impression at both clubs.
He began his youth career with Cardiff City before joining Newport County in 2014. Aged just 16, Poole made his debut in a league match against Shrewsbury Town, becoming the youngest player ever to represent Newport in the Football League — breaking a record that had stood since 1969.
His mature performances quickly attracted interest from top-tier clubs, and in September 2015, he signed for Manchester United. After a loan spell back at Newport in January 2019, where he helped guide the Exiles to the League Two play-off final, Poole joined MK Dons in the summer of 2019.
At MK Dons, Poole transitioned into a regular starter, often deployed in midfield and defence. He scored his first professional goal in the EFL Trophy against Northampton Town, and netted his first league goal in a 4–1 victory over Swindon Town. He made over 50 appearances before departing in 2021.
Alex Gilbey
Alex Gilbey is another player who left a mark on both clubs.
He first joined Newport County on loan from Colchester United in March 2013, during a critical stage of their push for promotion from the Conference Premier. Though his minutes were limited, Gilbey made a telling impact — most notably assisting a key goal in the play-off semi-final against Grimsby Town. Newport went on to win promotion after a 2–0 victory over Wrexham at Wembley.
After spells with Colchester, Wigan, and Charlton, Gilbey signed for MK Dons, where he became a key figure in midfield. Known for his tenacity, vision, and work ethic, Gilbey helped drive the Dons forward and remains a fan favourite at Stadium MK, now enjoying his second stint with the club.
Nicky Maynard
Veteran striker Nicky Maynard also features on the list of dual representatives.
He signed for MK Dons in September 2015, scoring six goals in 35 league appearances and finishing as the club’s top scorer for the 2015–16 Championship season. He re-signed in July 2016 but struggled for form during the following campaign, scoring just once before departing in May 2017.
After a prolific spell at Mansfield Town, Maynard joined Newport County on loan in February 2021. He scored on his debut in a 1–0 win over Grimsby Town and featured in the League Two play-off final at Wembley, which Newport narrowly lost to Morecambe after a 107th-minute penalty. He was released by Mansfield at the end of that season.
Mark Randall
Midfielder Mark Randall, a former Arsenal prospect once tipped by Arsène Wenger for stardom, also featured for both clubs.
He joined MK Dons in March 2014, signing a short-term deal which was later extended. Though highly regarded, Randall found game time limited and made 17 appearances in total. He didn't feature for the club after their promotion to the Championship in 2015.
Randall signed for Newport County in May 2016 and made an early impact, scoring a penalty against his former club MK Dons in the EFL Cup. However, his time at Newport was disrupted by personal matters, and after asking for a transfer in early 2017, he was temporarily dropped from the squad.
Under new manager Mike Flynn, he returned to help the club in their successful fight against relegation. His contract was terminated by mutual consent in June 2017.
