As Newport County prepare to take on MK Dons this weekend, we take a closer look at the Dons.
What’s their story?
Established in 2004, MK Dons represents a new chapter in football, born from the relocation of Wimbledon F.C. to Milton Keynes. With a fresh name, badge, and colours, the club quickly made its mark.
In 2007, MK Dons moved to their state-of-the-art home, Stadium MK, and celebrated a triumphant 2007–08 season by securing both the League Two title and the Football League Trophy. Under the guidance of Karl Robinson, the club achieved promotion to the Championship in 2015, marking a historic milestone. However, the Dons were relegated the following season. The club has since found itself consistently changing between League One and League Two.
MK Dons have earned a reputation for nurturing talent and excelling in youth development. Between 2012 and 2013, the club proudly produced 11 players who represented their nations at youth levels. From 2004 to 2014, 14 local academy graduates made their first-team debuts, including England international Dele Alli, showcasing the strength and promise of our academy system.
Who’s the boss?
Scott Lindsey, 52, is the current manager of MK Dons, bringing decades of experience from both his playing and coaching careers. His journey in football spans from the early 1990s as a player to a successful managerial career in the present day.
Lindsey’s playing career was rooted in the lower divisions of English football, beginning with Goole Town. Notably, he signed for Gillingham in July 1994, making his debut in a 1–0 defeat to Carlisle United on 31 December that year. During his time with the Gills, he made 12 league appearances before moving to Dover Athletic in October 1995. Over two seasons with Dover, Lindsey amassed 58 appearances, cementing his reputation as a reliable presence on the pitch.
Transitioning into coaching, Lindsey took on the role of first-team coach at Lincoln City under Chris Sutton in 2009 and briefly served as caretaker manager. He later took charge of Swindon Town before being appointed manager of Crawley Town in January 2023. At Crawley, Lindsey made an immediate impact, guiding the club to safety in his first season and then achieving promotion to League One through the 2024 League Two play-off final with a commanding 2–0 victory over Crewe Alexandra.
On 25 September 2024, Lindsey joined MK Dons, taking the helm at Stadium MK. With a proven track record of success and an unwavering commitment to progress, Scott Lindsey brings leadership, experience, and ambition to the club as they strive for new heights.
Who’s the captain?
Dean Lewington, an experienced and iconic defender, proudly serves as the captain of MK Dons. As the longest-serving player in the history of the English Football League for a single club, Lewington embodies loyalty, leadership, and dedication to the game.
Lewington's professional journey began with Wimbledon, making his first-team debut on 5 April 2003 as a substitute in a First Division match against Sheffield Wednesday at Hillsborough. When the club transitioned to MK Dons in 2004, Lewington remained a pivotal figure, quickly establishing himself as a cornerstone of the team.
In August 2008, following the departure of Keith Andrews to Blackburn Rovers, Lewington was named club captain. Under his leadership, the Dons achieved notable milestones, including a 1–0 victory over promotion rivals Peterborough United in March 2011 and a memorable appearance in the play-offs that season. On 2 December 2012, Lewington captained MK Dons in their highly publicised first meeting with AFC Wimbledon, a significant moment in the club's history.
Lewington reached a remarkable personal milestone on 12 January 2013, making his 400th league appearance for MK Dons in a match against Bury. His commitment to the club continued with a contract extension in July 2020, cementing his status as the longest-serving player in the Football League for a single team.
On 26 December 2023, Lewington etched his name into the history books by making his 771st league appearance for MK Dons, setting a new record for the most career league appearances by a player for a single club in EFL history.
Key player
Alex Gilbey, now in his second spell with MK Dons, has quickly established himself as the team's most potent attacking force. Renowned for his dynamic play and clinical finishing, Gilbey continues to be a key figure in the Dons’ success.
Gilbey's football journey includes a stint with Newport County during the 2012-13 season, where he made eight appearances and contributed to the Exiles' promotion back to the Football League. His career has since flourished, with his talent and versatility shining through at every stage.
Last season was a standout campaign for Gilbey, as he recorded career-best figures with 14 goals and 10 assists across 50 appearances in all competitions. His remarkable performances made him an invaluable asset to the team.
This season, Gilbey has carried his exceptional form forward, already netting nine goals in just 20 appearances. His ability to influence matches and deliver crucial moments continues to underline his importance to the Dons
