As Newport County prepare to take on MK Dons on Good Friday, we take a closer look at our opponents.
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 Ali, showcasing the strength and promise of our academy system.
Who’s the boss?
Paul Warne is the new Head Coach of MK Dons, having been appointed on Wednesday evening.
Warne brings a wealth of managerial experience to Stadium MK, having previously led Rotherham United and Derby County. Since 2018, he has secured four promotions from League One and lifted the EFL Trophy with Rotherham in 2022. His managerial success has also earned him the League One Manager of the Month award on five occasions.
During his playing career, Warne was a forward who began his professional journey with Wigan Athletic in 1997. He joined Rotherham United in 1999, where he spent five years and helped the club to two promotions. He later enjoyed two-year stints with Oldham Athletic and Yeovil Town before returning to Rotherham in 2009. He retired from playing in 2012.
Now 51, Warne arrives at MK Dons with over 30 years of experience in the game. He will be joined by long-time colleague Richie Barker, who takes on the role of Assistant Head Coach.
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.
