As Newport County prepare to take on MK Dons, we take a closer look at the Dons.
MK Dons’ Story
Founded in 2004 following the relocation of Wimbledon F.C. to Milton Keynes, MK Dons marked the beginning of a new era in English football. With a fresh identity — name, badge, and colours — the club quickly set about making its mark on the game.
In 2007, MK Dons moved into their state-of-the-art home, Stadium MK, and just a year later enjoyed a memorable 2007–08 campaign, lifting both the League Two title and the Football League Trophy. Under the management of Karl Robinson, the Dons reached another historic milestone in 2015 when they secured promotion to the Championship for the first time in the club’s history, though they were relegated the following season. Since then, MK Dons have alternated between League One and League Two.
The club has also built a strong reputation for player development. Between 2012 and 2013, no fewer than 11 players progressed through the academy to represent their nations at youth level. From 2004 to 2014, 14 local graduates made their senior debuts, most notably England international Dele Alli — a testament to the quality and promise of the Dons’ youth system.
The Manager
Paul Warne was appointed as Head Coach of MK Dons towards the end of last season, bringing with him a wealth of managerial experience and a proven track record of success.
Warne previously managed Rotherham United and Derby County, where he built a reputation for consistency and resilience. Since 2018, he has achieved four promotions from League One and lifted the EFL Trophy with Rotherham in 2022. His achievements have also been recognised with five League One Manager of the Month awards.
Before moving into management, Warne enjoyed a successful playing career as a forward. He began his professional journey with Wigan Athletic in 1997 before joining Rotherham United in 1999, helping the Millers to two promotions during a five-year spell. He went on to represent Oldham Athletic and Yeovil Town, each for two seasons, before returning to Rotherham in 2009. Warne retired from playing in 2012.
Now preparing for his first full season in charge at Stadium MK, Warne will be determined to lead the Dons back to League One and deliver on the club’s ambitions.
The Captain
After two successful seasons back at Stadium MK, Alex Gilbey has been named the new club captain, succeeding long-serving skipper Dean Lewington following the expiration of his contract. With over 200 appearances in the white of MK Dons, Gilbey embodies loyalty and commitment, serving as a role model for his teammates both on and off the pitch.
Gilbey’s football journey began with Newport County during the 2012–13 season, where he made eight appearances and played a part in the Exiles’ promotion back to the Football League. His career has flourished ever since, with his talent, work rate, and versatility making him a key figure wherever he has played.
Since returning to the Dons, Gilbey has made 99 appearances and scored 27 goals, underlining his importance to the team. He has also started the current season in fine form, netting twice in the club’s opening four games as he leads by example in his new role as captain.
Key Player
Callum Paterson
Experienced Championship striker Callum Paterson joined MK Dons this summer from Sheffield Wednesday, where he registered 10 goal involvements across all competitions last season. The Scotsman has made an immediate impact at Stadium MK, starting the new campaign in fine form with two goals and two assists in the opening five games.
Paterson began his career with Scottish Premiership side Hearts, making 137 appearances and scoring 33 goals. His performances at Tynecastle earned him a move to Cardiff City, where he spent three seasons and netted 19 goals, including four in the Premier League during the 2018–19 campaign.
He then joined Sheffield Wednesday, where he became a key figure over five seasons. Paterson came close to the 200-appearance milestone for the Owls, scoring 31 goals in the famous blue and white before making the switch to Milton Keynes.