We welcome one of our old gaffers and an MK legend Karl Robinson back on Saturday with our clash versus Oxford United who like us have had a decent start to the season. Giving us the heads up this week is Oxford fan Dale Ventham, so many thanks to him, and good luck for the rest of the season.
1 – We are about a half of the way through the season, so how is it looking for your team so far?
It’s been a solid start for us under Karl Robinson, we have become notoriously slow starters but picked up form as the season has progressed. Even with that, we have still reached the playoffs so making a strong start bodes well.
2 – We are noticing that some clubs are struggling with attendances, are you back anywhere near to your pre-Covid attendances?
They aren’t too bad. I think for some people a return still doesn’t make them feel comfortable, but whatever the reason you can only respect it.
3- We note that many clubs are going across to digital tickets and cashless stadiums and this has caused major problems for fans, is this something that has affected you as a fan, home or away?
Not that I am aware of.
4 – Every club has played just about all the teams in League One, who do you think is the best and the worst team you have played so far?
The best team was one of Bolton, Plymouth, or Rotherham. Bolton looked solid and deserved the win against us. Plymouth look a class above, but I think our performance made them look better than they were in all fairness. Rotherham, as always, were well organised but we picked up a valuable point with a depleted side against them recently.
5 – In our forthcoming game what sort of style can we expect to see from your team?
Attacking and free flowing. We like to play from the back and use the wide players as often as possible.
6 – Is there any current MK Dons player that you would like to see playing for your team?
Scott Twine has embedded in well, although I don’t think that would be a wise choice given his previous club! Always thought Ethan Robson was a decent little player.
7 – Every lower league club fear that the big boys are monitoring their players, is there anybody in your team that is attracting unwanted attention, and might be lured away in January?
A few! Goalkeeper Jack Stevens was linked with a move to Aston Villa in the summer while we have rejected several bids from Championship clubs for midfielder Cameron Brannagan. If we keep hold of those two in particular, then we have a strong chance of promotion. Keeping hold of Barnsley loanee Herbie Kane could also be crucial in pushing for promotion.
8 – Is there anyone in your team that we should really fear as a potential game-changer?
The three above. Stevens stepped in for the experienced Simon Eastwood last season and has become an integral part of the team. He’s missed a few games through illness this season but it’s good to welcome him back.
Brannagan and Kane can dictate the play and could arguably be the strongest midfield two in the league. James Henry is also up there as a game-changer for goals, assists and key passes while Matty Taylor will always score when presented with a chance.
9 – Can you predict where you think your club will finish at the end of the season, and where the MK Dons will finish?
Given the start, anything lower than the playoffs would be a failure in my option. MK have made a good start and I think they’ll be close to the playoffs come the end of the season.
10 – Many thanks for taking part, all we need now is your prediction for the game?
It will undoubtedly be a tough game for both sides but I’m going to stick my neck out and predict a 2-1 win for us.
