Hubbry Logo
Milton Keynes Dons F.C.Milton Keynes Dons F.C.Main
Open search
Milton Keynes Dons F.C.
Community hub
Milton Keynes Dons F.C.
logo
7 pages, 0 posts
0 subscribers
Be the first to start a discussion here.
Be the first to start a discussion here.
Milton Keynes Dons F.C.
Milton Keynes Dons F.C.
Milton Keynes Dons F.C.
View on Wikipedia
from Wikipedia

Milton Keynes Dons Football Club, usually abbreviated to MK Dons, is a professional association football club based in Milton Keynes, Buckinghamshire, England. The team competes in EFL League Two, the fourth level of the English football league system. The club was founded in 2004, following Wimbledon F.C.'s controversial relocation to Milton Keynes from south London, when it adopted its present name, badge and home colours.[n 2]

Key Information

Initially based at the National Hockey Stadium, the club competed as Milton Keynes Dons from the start of the 2004–05 season. The club moved to their current ground, Stadium MK, for the 2007–08 season, in which they won the League Two title and the Football League Trophy. After seven further seasons in League One, the club won promotion to the Championship in 2015 under the management of Karl Robinson; however, they were relegated back to League One after one season.

Milton Keynes Dons have built a reputation for youth development,[4] run 16 disability teams and their football trust engages around 60,000 people; between 2012 and 2013 the club produced 11 young players who have been called into age group national teams and between 2004 and 2014 the club also gave first-team debuts to 14 local academy graduates, including the England international midfielder Dele Alli.[5][6]

The club also operates a women's team, Milton Keynes Dons Women, who groundshare Stadium MK with their male counterparts, and currently play in the third tier of the English women's football pyramid.[7]

Origins

[edit]
Main article: Relocation of Wimbledon F.C. to Milton Keynes
Further information: Wimbledon F.C.
Milton Keynes Dons F.C. is located in England
Milton Keynes
Milton Keynes
Plough Lane
Plough Lane
Selhurst Park
Selhurst Park
class=notpageimage|
Locations of Plough Lane, Selhurst Park and Milton Keynes

Milton Keynes, about 45 miles (72 km) north-west of London in Buckinghamshire, was established as a new town in 1967.[8] In the absence of a professional football club representing the town—none of the local non-league teams progressed significantly through the English football league system or "pyramid" over the following decades—it was occasionally suggested that a Football League club might relocate there. There was no precedent in English league football for such a move between conurbations and the football authorities and most fans expressed strong opposition to the idea.[9] Charlton Athletic briefly mooted moving to "a progressive Midlands borough" during a planning dispute with their local council in 1973,[10] and the relocation of nearby Luton Town to Milton Keynes was repeatedly suggested from the 1980s onwards.[11] Another team linked with the new town was Wimbledon Football Club.[12]

Wimbledon, established in south London in 1889 and nicknamed "the Dons", were elected to the Football League in 1977. They thereafter went through a "fairytale" rise from obscurity and by the end of the 1980s were established in the top division of English football, as well as winning the 1988 FA Cup final.[13] Despite Wimbledon's new prominence, the club's modest home stadium at Plough Lane remained largely unchanged from its non-league days.[13] The club's then-owner Ron Noades identified this as a problem as early as 1979, extending his dissatisfaction to the ground's very location. Interested in the stadium site designated by the Milton Keynes Development Corporation, Noades briefly planned to move Wimbledon there by merging with a non-league club in Milton Keynes, and bought debt-ridden Milton Keynes City. However, Noades then decided that the club would not gain sufficient support in Milton Keynes and abandoned the idea.[12]

In 1991, after the Taylor Report was published recommending the redevelopment of English football grounds, Wimbledon left Plough Lane to groundshare at Crystal Palace's ground, Selhurst Park, about 6 miles (9.7 km) away. Sam Hammam, who then owned Wimbledon, said the club could not afford to redevelop Plough Lane and that the groundshare was a temporary arrangement while a new ground was sourced in south-west London. A new stadium for Wimbledon proved difficult to achieve.[13] Frustrated by what he perceived as a lack of support from Merton Council, Hammam began to look further afield and by 1996 was pursuing a move to Dublin, an idea that most Wimbledon fans strongly opposed.[14] Hammam sold the club to two Norwegian businessmen, Kjell Inge Røkke and Bjørn Rune Gjelsten, in 1997,[15] and a year later sold Plough Lane to Safeway supermarkets.[16] Wimbledon were relegated from the Premier League at the end of the 1999–2000 season.[17]

A man in a dark suit with wispy brown hair and a wide smile looks into the camera.
Pete Winkelman, in 2011

Starting in 1997,[18] a consortium led by music promoter Pete Winkelman and supported by Asda and IKEA proposed a large retail development in Milton Keynes including a Football League-standard stadium.[19][20] The consortium originally proposed that the stadium be located at the National Bowl but later altered their proposal to change the site of the proposed stadium to Denbigh North, the same site as the mooted retail development.[21]

The consortium proposed that an established league club move to use this site;[19][20] it approached Luton, Wimbledon, Crystal Palace, Barnet, and Queens Park Rangers.[22] In 2001, Røkke and Gjelsten appointed a new chairman, Charles Koppel, who was in favour of this idea, saying it was necessary to stop the club going out of business.[23] To the fury of most Wimbledon fans,[24] Koppel announced on 2 August 2001 that the club intended to relocate to Milton Keynes. After the Football League refused permission, Wimbledon launched an appeal, leading to a Football Association arbitration hearing and subsequently the appointment of a three-man independent commission to make a final and binding verdict. The league and FA stated opposition but the commissioners ruled in favour, two to one, on 28 May 2002.[25]

Having campaigned against the move,[24] a group of disaffected Wimbledon fans reacted to this in June 2002 by forming their own non-league club, AFC Wimbledon, to which most of the original team's support defected.[26] AFC Wimbledon entered a groundshare agreement with Kingstonian in the borough of Kingston upon Thames, adjacent to Merton.[26] The original Wimbledon intended to move to Milton Keynes immediately but were unable to do so until a temporary home in the town meeting Football League criteria could be found.[27] The club remained at Selhurst Park in the meantime and in June 2003 went into administration.[28] With the move threatened and the club facing liquidation,[29] Winkelman decided to buy it himself.[20] He secured funding for the administrators to keep the team operating with the goal of getting it to Milton Keynes as soon as possible.[30] The club arranged the temporary use of the National Hockey Stadium in Milton Keynes and played its first match there in September 2003.[31] Nine months later, Winkelman's Inter MK Group bought the club out of administration and announced changes to its name, badge and colours—the team was renamed Milton Keynes Dons Football Club.[32]

History

[edit]
See also: List of Milton Keynes Dons F.C. seasons

2004–2006: Struggles and relegation

[edit]
Milton Keynes Dons (white) take on Blackpool (tangerine) at the former England National Hockey Stadium during the 2004–05 season

The first season for the club as Milton Keynes Dons was 2004–05, in Football League One, under Stuart Murdoch, who had managed Wimbledon F.C. since 2002. The team's first game was on 7 August 2004, a 1–1 home draw against Barnsley, with Izale McLeod equalising with their first competitive goal.[33] Murdoch was sacked in November[34] and replaced by Danny Wilson, who kept Milton Keynes Dons in the division on the final day of the season — largely due to Wrexham's 10-point deduction for going into administration. The following season, Milton Keynes Dons struggled all year, and were relegated to League Two; Wilson, as a result, was sacked.[35]

2006–2010: Promotion and first silverware

[edit]

Wilson's successor for 2006–07 was Martin Allen, who had just taken Brentford to the brink of a place in the Football League Championship. Milton Keynes Dons were in contention for automatic promotion right up to the last game of the season, but eventually finished fourth and had to settle for a play-off place. They then suffered a defeat to Shrewsbury Town in the play-off semi-finals. During the 2007 summer break, Allen left to take over at Leicester City.

For the 2007–08 season, former England captain Paul Ince took over as manager. Milton Keynes Dons reached the final of the Football League Trophy, while topping the table for most of the season. The final was played on 30 March 2008 against Grimsby Town — Milton Keynes Dons won 2–0 at Wembley to bring the first professional trophy to Milton Keynes. The club capped the trophy win with the League Two championship, and the subsequent promotion to League One. Following his successes, Ince left at the end of the season to manage Blackburn Rovers.

Ince's replacement was former Chelsea player Roberto Di Matteo, taking his first role as a manager. In the 2008–09 season, they missed out on an automatic promotion spot by two points, finishing third behind Peterborough United and Leicester City. They were knocked out of the play-offs by Scunthorpe United, who defeated MK Dons by penalty shootout at Stadium MK. Di Matteo left at the season's end for West Bromwich Albion.[36] A year after leaving, Ince returned as manager for the 2009–10 season.[37] He resigned from the club on 16 April 2010, but remained manager until the end of the season.[38]

2010–2016: Karl Robinson era

[edit]

On 10 May 2010, Karl Robinson was appointed as the club's new manager, with former England coach John Gorman as his assistant. At 29 years of age, Robinson was at the time of his appointment the youngest manager in the Football League.[39] In his first season in the club Milton Keynes Dons finished fifth in 2010–11 League One. They faced Peterborough United in the play-off semifinals. Although they won the first leg 2–1, a 2–0 defeat at London Road meant they missed out on the play-off final, losing the Semi-Final 3–2 on aggregate goals.

The 2011–12 season brought similar results to the previous season with the Dons finishing fifth in 2011–12 League One facing Huddersfield in the play-offs. Losing the first leg 2–0 followed by winning 2–1 at The Galpharm saw Milton Keynes Dons lose 3–2 on aggregate against the eventual play-off winners. The away leg was John Gorman's last match in football after announcing his retirement a few weeks beforehand. Gorman's replacement was announced on 18 May 2012 as being ex-Luton manager Mick Harford along with new part-time coach Ian Wright.

Chart showing the progress of MK Dons' league finishes since the 2004–05 season

Milton Keynes Dons experienced their best ever FA Cup campaign in the 2012–13 season by beating a spirited Cambridge City (0–0 and 6–1), League Two fierce rivals AFC Wimbledon (2–1), Championship Sheffield Wednesday (0–0 and 2–0) and Premier League Queens Park Rangers (4–2) to reach the fifth round of the competition for the first time in their history. Their record-breaking run ended in the fifth round at Stadium MK on 16 February 2013, losing 3–1 to Championship side Barnsley. After being in the top five for most of the season, the club finished the 2013–14 League One season in tenth place.

The 2014–15 season began well. The highlight event of the season's first month was being drawn against Manchester United in the League Cup second round, having dispatched AFC Wimbledon in the first. The Dons recorded a shock 4–0 victory over Manchester United in front of a sell out crowd at Stadium MK.[40] A few weeks later, the Dons recorded their record win, a 6–0 thrashing of Colchester United at home.[41] That record did not last long as it was broken once again with a 7–0 demolition of Oldham Athletic on 20 December 2014.[42] Just over a month later, on 31 January 2015, the Dons recorded a joint record 5–0 away win against Crewe Alexandra, earning a short-lived top spot.[43] On 3 May the club secured promotion to the Football League Championship for the first time, beating Yeovil Town 5–1 and leapfrogging Preston North End (who lost 1–0 at Colchester United) on the final day of the season.[44]

The Dons started life in the Championship by beating Rotherham United away 4–1 on the opening day of the season and gaining seven points from a possible 12 in their first four games. They were not able to sustain this form throughout the season – the Dons did not win any of their final 11 games and they returned to League One after finishing 23rd in the Championship.[45]

On 23 October 2016, Karl Robinson left the club by mutual consent, following a 3–0 home defeat by Southend United the previous day, which had extended the Dons' winless run to four games and left them 19th in the League One table.[46]

2016–2018: Slow decline

[edit]

Robbie Neilson joined MK Dons as manager from Scottish Premiership club Heart of Midlothian in his native Scotland,[47] with his first official game in charge coincidentally an FA Cup tie against Karl Robinson's new club Charlton Athletic.[48] Neilson's reign started off well, with his second game in charge a win over AFC Wimbledon,[49] and in late January 2017 a local derby win against Northampton Town.[50]

The following season started badly; however, on 30 December 2017 the team was noted[51] for a remarkable 1–0 derby win against Peterborough, playing with 9 men for 68 minutes after controversial refereeing decisions[52][53] and 13 minutes of added time.[54] Neilson left by mutual consent on 20 January 2018 after a run of one win in eleven league games with the club 21st in the table;[55] he was sacked the same day as his last game, a disappointing away 2–1 derby defeat against relegation rivals Northampton Town.[56]

Under Neilson's successor, Dan Micciche, the club continued to struggle in the relegation places. Following a run of poor results with only three wins in sixteen matches in charge, Micciche left the club on 22 April 2018, with assistant manager Keith Millen taking over as a caretaker.[57] On the penultimate weekend of the season another defeat relegated them to League Two (leaving them seven points from safety with one game to play).[58]

2018–2023: Bounce-back and search for stability

[edit]

Former Exeter City manager Paul Tisdale was appointed in June 2018 after 12 years at his previous club.[59] After a season where the Dons were tipped to be favourites for promotion, the club spent most of the season around the automatic promotion and play-off places. Going top after a 2–0 win over Macclesfield Town in November,[60] the club sunk to 8th in February[61] before being one win way away from automatic promotion against play-off hopefuls Colchester United in the penultimate game. The Dons lost 2–0[62] which led to a "winner takes all" game against 3rd placed Mansfield Town, who were separated by goal difference, to determine who was promoted.[63] MK Dons won 1–0 in front of nearly 21,000 fans meaning they returned to League One at the first attempt.[64]

Following a poor start to the 2019–20 season in which the Dons achieved only one point from a possible 27, the worst run of results in the club's history, Tisdale's contract with the club was mutually terminated on 2 November 2019 following a 1–3 home defeat to fellow relegation-threatened Tranmere Rovers.[65] The next day, Russell Martin was announced as the new permanent first-team manager; he had joined as a player earlier in the year.[66] Fixtures were suspended on 13 March 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic,[67] and the clubs later voted to end the season prematurely with immediate effect on 9 June 2020, with the final table decided upon by an unweighted points-per-game system resulting in the club finishing the season in 19th place,[68] thus avoiding relegation.

The Dons went into the final weekend of the 2021–22 League One season with a chance of gaining automatic promotion to the Championship, and even had a slim chance of becoming Champions if they won by a big score and other results went their way. They comfortably beat Plymouth Argyle 5–0,[69] but both Wigan Athletic and Rotherham United won their games against Shrewsbury Town and Gillingham, respectively, to claim the two automatic promotion berths.[70][71] The Dons finished third[72] and faced Buckinghamshire rivals Wycombe Wanderers in the play-offs. Despite the Dons having home advantage in the second leg of their semi-final, Wycombe won 2–1 on aggregate to reach the final at Wembley.[73]

MK Dons suffered relegation to League Two in the 2022–23 League One season. Liam Manning was replaced as manager in December 2022,[74] but successor Mark Jackson registered just six wins in 25 games and was sacked after the side were relegated following a final day 0–0 draw at Burton Albion.[75]

2023–present: Return to League Two

[edit]

On 27 May 2023, MK Dons appointed Graham Alexander as their new head coach.[76] After an eight-match winless run, Alexander was sacked with MK Dons in 16th place.[77] On 17 October 2023, MK Dons announced that they had appointed Gateshead manager Mike Williamson as their new head coach.[78] He led MK Dons to a 4th-placed finish, where they faced Crawley Town in the play-off semi-finals.[79] Crawley won 8–1 on aggregate, inflicting the largest play-off defeat in EFL history on the club.[80] This was the sixth time MK Dons had competed in the play-offs without reaching a final.[80]

On 9 August 2024, the owner, Pete Winkelman, sold the club to a Kuwait-based consortium, with Fahad Al Ghanim becoming the club's new chairman, representing the first change in ownership since the club's inception.[81] After four losses in the opening six games, including a 3–0 defeat to arch-rivals AFC Wimbledon,[82] Mike Williamson was appointed as the manager of Carlisle United on 19 September, with the Cumbrians meeting the release clause in his contract.[83] MK Dons appointed Williamson's replacement, the Crawley Town boss Scott Lindsey, on 25 September 2024.[84] Lindsey's contract was terminated on 2 March 2025, with the club in 17th place, following a run of just two wins from 14 league games.[85] On 15 April 2025, Paul Warne was announced as the Head Coach on a 'long term' deal with just 4 games remaining of the 2024–25 EFL League Two season.[86]

Kit history

[edit]
Only seasons played by Milton Keynes Dons under that name are given here. For a kit history of Wimbledon F.C., see Wimbledon F.C.#Kit history.
Season Kit manufacturer Main sponsor Back of shirt Sleeve Shorts
2004–2005 A-line Marshall Amplification
2005–2006
2006–2007 Surridge Sports
2007–2008 Nike
2008–2009
2009–2010 DoubleTree by Hilton
2010–2011 ISC
2011–2012
2012–2013 Vandanel Case Security
2013–2014 Sondico
2014–2015 Suzuki GB[87][88]
2015–2016 Erreà
2016–2017
2017–2018
2018–2019
2019–2020
2020–2021
2021–2022
2022–2023 Castore[89] eEnergy [90]
2023–2024
2024–2025 Stadium Support Services Ltd[91]
2025–2026 Reebok[92] Equity Energies

Source: Historical Football Kits

Stadium

[edit]
Stadium MK's East Stand in 2007
Main articles: National Hockey Stadium (Milton Keynes) and Stadium MK

The club's first stadium was the National Hockey Stadium, which was temporarily converted for football for the duration of the club's stay. Their lease on the venue ended in May 2007.

On 18 July 2007, the club's new 30,500 capacity stadium, Stadium MK in Denbigh hosted its first game, a restricted-entrance event against a young Chelsea XI.[93] The stadium was officially opened on 29 November 2007 by Queen Elizabeth II.[94] The stadium features an open concourse at the top of the lower tier, an integrated hotel with rooms looking over the pitch and conference facilities. The complex was to include a 3,000 capacity indoor arena, where the MK Lions basketball team would be based, but completion of this arena was delayed due to deferral of proposed commercial developments around the site.[95]

In May 2009, the stadium was named as one of 15 stadia put forward as potential hosts for the England 2018 FIFA World Cup bid, which would include increasing capacity to 44,000,[96] however England's bid was later unsuccessful. In recent years Stadium MK has played host to the 2014 FA Women's Cup final, three Rugby World Cup 2015 fixtures[97][98] and four matches (including a semi-final) of the UEFA Women's Euro 2022.[99]

Supporters

[edit]

Initial supporters' club recognition

[edit]

On 4 June 2005, at the 2005 Football Supporters' Federation "Fans' Parliament" (AGM), the FSF refused the Milton Keynes Dons Supporters Association (MKDSA) membership of the FSF in a debate that, among other arguments, questioned why the Football League had yet to introduce any new rules to prevent the "franchising" of other football clubs in the future.[100][101] In addition, the FSF membership agreed with the Wimbledon Independent Supporters' Association (WISA) that the MKDSA should not be entitled to join the FSF until they give up all claim to the history and honours of Wimbledon FC. With this in mind, the FSF began discussions aimed at returning Wimbledon FC's honours to the London Borough of Merton.

Shortly afterwards, following heavy criticism for allowing the move, the Football League announced new tighter rules on club relocation.[102] At its AGM on 5 June 2006, the FSF again considered a motion[103] proposed by the FSF Council to allow Milton Keynes Dons Supporters Association membership if the honours and trophies of Wimbledon FC were given to the London Borough of Merton. In October 2006, agreement[104] was reached between the club, the Milton Keynes Dons Supporters Association, the Wimbledon Independent Supporters' Association and the Football Supporters Federation. The FA Cup trophy plus all club patrimony gathered under the name of Wimbledon Football Club would be returned to the London Borough of Merton. Ownership of trademarks and website domain names related to Wimbledon would also be transferred to the borough. As part of the same agreement it was agreed that any reference made to Milton Keynes Dons should refer only to events subsequent to 7 August 2004 (the date of the first league game of Milton Keynes Dons).

As a result of this deal, the FSF announced that the supporters of Milton Keynes Dons would be permitted to become members of the federation, and that it would no longer appeal to the supporters of other clubs to boycott Milton Keynes Dons' matches.[105] On 2 August 2007, Milton Keynes Dons transferred ownership of all Wimbledon Football Club trophies and memorabilia to the London Borough of Merton.[106]

Rivalries

[edit]

AFC Wimbledon

Main article: AFC Wimbledon–Milton Keynes Dons F.C. rivalry

Due to their shared ancestry in Wimbledon F.C., there is an unavoidably acrimonious rivalry with AFC Wimbledon[107] since the relocation of Wimbledon F.C. to Milton Keynes;[108]

The first fixture between the two clubs took place on 2 December 2012 in the second round of the 2012–13 FA Cup, where they were drawn to play each other at Stadium MK. Milton Keynes Dons won the match 2–1, with a winner scored in injury time by Jon Otsemobor and later dubbed by MK Dons fans as "The Heel of God" (a reference to Maradona's "Hand of God").[109] Kyle McFadzean's opening goal for MK Dons in the second match between the two clubs, a 3–1 Milton Keynes win in the first round of the League Cup in August 2014,[110] was also scored with his heel, and was consequently labelled "Heel of God II".[111] Two months later, in the Football League Trophy Southern section second round, AFC Wimbledon defeated MK Dons 3–2 with a winning goal by Adebayo Akinfenwa.[112]

On 10 December 2016, the sides met for the first time in a competitive league fixture following MK Dons' relegation from the Championship and AFC Wimbledon's promotion from League Two the previous season. Milton Keynes Dons won 1–0, with Dean Bowditch scoring the only goal of the game with a 63rd-minute penalty.[113] The first visit of MK Dons to AFC Wimbledon's home ground for a League One match on 14 March 2017 resulted in a 2–0 victory for AFC Wimbledon. The 2018–19 season saw AFC Wimbledon remain in League One, in a higher league than MK Dons for the first time.[114]

In 2017, AFC Wimbledon, in the club's programme for their home game against the Dons, played on 22 September, failed to recognise their opponents by their full name for the second successive season. AFC Wimbledon's official Twitter feed also referred to their opponents as "Milton Keynes" throughout their match coverage. AFC Wimbledon were subsequently threatened by the EFL with disciplinary action,[108] and eventually charged with breaching EFL regulations.[115] The charges were dropped.[116] AFC Wimbledon were forced to refer to MK Dons by their full name ahead of the 2019–20 season, after the EFL stepped in to mediate.[117]

Peterborough United

MK Dons have a rivalry with Peterborough United,[118] since the two clubs have vied head-to-head for promotion to the Championship in recent years.[119] A rivalry also exists between MK Lightning and Peterborough Phantoms in ice hockey that pre-dates the football rivalry.[120]

Northampton Town

Northampton is geographically the closest urban area to Milton Keynes with a professional football team, Northampton Town, the two places separated by a little over 20 miles (32 km).[121] Former MK Dons Supporters' Association Chairman John Brockwell had stated that the fans were looking forward to hosting Northampton Town, the club that, geographically at least, are their nearest rivals.[122] Although Peterborough United have been traditionally Northampton's main rivals, the "Cobblers" spokesman has stated, in 2008, that, "with MK Dons now on the fixture list, it gives [Northampton] supporters the chance to develop another rivalry."[122]

In January 2016 police arrested a Milton Keynes fan for setting off pyrotechnics in the away end, and two Northampton fans and three more Milton Keynes fans were ejected from the ground.[123] In 2018, before the 30 January 3pm kick-off in the League One game between the two clubs, Northamptonshire Police arrested seven travelling supporters of the Dons, with one Northampton fan also arrested.[124][125] Four arrests were for public order offences, one for criminal damage, one for pitch encroachment, one for obstructing the police, and one for affray.[124]

Wycombe Wanderers

Wycombe Wanderers are the only other professional team in Buckinghamshire, so games between the two teams are labelled "the Bucks derby".[126][127]

Community

[edit]

Through the work of its charity, Milton Keynes Dons SET (Sport and Educational Trust), the club works locally in the fields of education, social inclusion, participation and football development.[128] It works with schools, has 14 disability teams playing in regional or national competitions, works with BME (black and minority ethnic) community groups and runs many activities for women and girls.[128]

Milton Keynes Dons' work in the community has been recognised by the award of the Football League Awards Community Club of the Season for the South East & East in both 2012 and 2022,[129] and in the award of an honorary doctorate to chairman Pete Winkelman by the Open University in June 2013.[130] The club have also been awarded Family Excellence status by the EFL every year since the award's inception in 2008, recognising continuing improvement and best practice in family engagement.[131]

Youth academy

[edit]
Milton Keynes Dons sold Dele Alli to Tottenham Hotspur for £5 million in 2015

Striker Sam Baldock was the first notable academy graduate who, after making 102 appearances, moved on to West Ham United for a seven-figure sum. He later became captain of Bristol City and also played for Derby County. As of February 2015, Daniel Powell, Tom Flanagan and George Baldock, brother of Sam, all played regularly for the MK Dons first team.

On 2 February 2015, Milton Keynes Dons academy graduate and first team midfielder Dele Alli was sold to Premier League side Tottenham Hotspur for a fee in the region of £5 million.[132] Alli became the first Milton Keynes Dons academy graduate to make a full England senior team debut, on 9 October 2015.[133]

Kevin Danso is a graduate of the academy[134] who went on to play for Austria and became the youngest player to make a league appearance in FC Augsburg's history, when making his Bundesliga debut.[135][136]

Other notable youth graduates who have gone on to play at a higher level include George Williams, Brendan Galloway, Scotland international Liam Kelly and England youth team international Sheyi Ojo.

On 9 August 2016, in a first-round EFL Cup match against Newport County, manager Karl Robinson selected a first-team squad composed of 13 academy graduates and players, giving eight of those players their full debuts for the club including Brandon Thomas-Asante. The game ended with a 2–3 away win for the club.[137]

Players

[edit]

First-team squad

[edit]
As of 1 September 2025[138]

Note: Flags indicate national team as defined under FIFA eligibility rules; some limited exceptions apply. Players may hold more than one non-FIFA nationality.

No. Pos. Nation Player
1 GK  SCO Craig MacGillivray
2 DF  AUS Gethin Jones
4 DF  ENG Nathan Thompson
6 MF  IRL Liam Kelly
7 MF  ENG Daniel Crowley
8 MF  ENG Alex Gilbey (captain)
9 FW  IRL Scott Hogan
10 FW  WAL Aaron Collins
11 FW  GUA Nathaniel Mendez-Laing
12 DF  ENG Kane Wilson
13 FW  SCO Callum Paterson
14 DF  ENG Joe Tomlinson (vice-captain)
15 DF  ENG Luke Offord
16 MF  FRA Aaron Nemane
No. Pos. Nation Player
17 FW  ENG Jonathan Leko
18 MF  ENG Will Collar
20 MF  ENG Kane Thompson-Sommers
21 DF  ENG Marvin Ekpiteta
22 DF  ENG Jon Mellish (on loan from Wigan Athletic)
23 DF  ENG Laurence Maguire
24 MF  WAL Connor Lemonheigh-Evans
25 DF  NIR Phoenix Scholtz
27 GK  ENG Connal Trueman
29 FW  ENG Rushian Hepburn-Murphy
32 DF  ENG Jack Sanders
33 GK  ENG Tom Finch
34 MF  WAL Callum Tripp
35 DF  ENG Charlie Waller

Out on loan

[edit]

Note: Flags indicate national team as defined under FIFA eligibility rules; some limited exceptions apply. Players may hold more than one non-FIFA nationality.

No. Pos. Nation Player
5 DF  ENG Sam Sherring (on loan to Cheltenham Town until 30 June 2026)
— GK  ENG Seb Stacey (on loan to Worthing until 30 June 2026)

Notable players

[edit]
For a list of all Milton Keynes Dons players, past or present, see Category:Milton Keynes Dons F.C. players.
Dean Lewington, the most recent captain of MK Dons, has played more matches for the team than any other player. Pictured in 2011, he was the last former Wimbledon player left in the club's squad.

Mark Wright finished the 2007–08 season as the club's top goalscorer, helping the Dons win both the League Two title and the Football League Trophy. Jon Otsemobor made 44 appearances for the club and scored the winning goal in the first match against AFC Wimbledon with a back-heel that was later dubbed the "Heel of God".[139]

Milton Keynes Dons were former Premier League player Jimmy Bullard's last club before his retirement from football, making only three appearances for the club.[140] Similarly Dietmar Hamman made 12 appearances as a player-coach before retiring.[141]

Notable players loaned from other clubs were strikers Patrick Bamford, who scored 18 goals in 37 games, Benik Afobe, who became the league's top scorer in just six months, and Ángelo Balanta, whose loan spell lasted three years.[142] Former Ireland international Clinton Morrison[143] and former Premiership players Paul Rachubka and James Tavernier also had short loan spells with the club.

Alan Smith, most known for his time at Leeds United and Manchester United, joined the club on loan, signing from Newcastle United before making the move permanent totalling 67 appearances for the club. Other international players who have worn the Dons shirt include Tore André Flo, Ali Gerba, Michel Pensée, Cristian Benavente, Richard Pacquette, Keith Andrews, Russell Martin, Tom Flanagan, Drissa Diallo, Pelé and Ousseynou Cissé. Joe Walsh, Brendan Galloway, Jordan Houghton, Connor Furlong, Gboly Ariyibi, Gareth Edds all represented their countries at youth level.

This list contains players who have made 100 or more league appearances (with the exception of Dele Alli). Appearances and goals apply to league matches only; substitute appearances are included. Names in bold denote current Milton Keynes Dons players.
Statistics are correct as of 8 May 2025.[144]
Name Nationality Position[n 3] Milton Keynes Dons
career		 Apps Goals Notes
Dele Alli  England Midfielder 2011–2015 88 24
Sam Baldock  England Forward 2006–2011 102 33
Dean Bowditch  England Winger 2011–2017 185 37
Samir Carruthers  Ireland Midfielder 2013–2017 117 6
Luke Chadwick  England Midfielder 2008–2014 210 17
Gareth Edds  Australia Midfielder 2004–2008 122 10
Stephen Gleeson  Ireland Midfielder 2009–2014 174 16
Willy Guéret  France Goalkeeper 2007–2011 135 0
Antony Kay  England Defender 2012–2016 142 6
Mathias Kouo-Doumbé  France Defender 2009–2013 121 11
Peter Leven  Scotland Midfielder 2008–2011 113 22
Dean Lewington  England Defender 2004–2025 791 21 [n 4]
David Martin  England Goalkeeper 2004–2006
2010–17		 274 0
Izale McLeod  England Forward 2004–2007
2013–2014		 165 62
Sean O'Hanlon  England Defender 2006–2011 157 15
Clive Platt  England Forward 2005–2007 102 27
Darren Potter  Ireland Midfielder 2011–2017 228 9
Daniel Powell  England Forward 2008–2017 228 37
Ben Reeves  Northern Ireland Midfielder 2013–2017 102 22
Jordan Spence  England Defender 2013–2016 100 2
Aaron Wilbraham  England Forward 2005–2011 178 50
Shaun Williams  Ireland Defender 2011–2014 108 19
George Williams  England Defender 2016–2021 142 4

Player of the Year

[edit]
Year Winner
2005 England Ben Chorley
2006 England Izale McLeod
2007 England Clive Platt
2008 Republic of Ireland Keith Andrews
2009 England Aaron Wilbraham
2010 England Luke Chadwick
2011 England Luke Chadwick
2012 Republic of Ireland Darren Potter
2013 Republic of Ireland Shaun Williams
2014 Northern Ireland Ben Reeves
2015 England Carl Baker
2016 England David Martin
 
Year Winner
2017 England George Williams
2018 Not awarded[a]
2019 England Alex Gilbey[146]
2020 England Alex Gilbey[146]
2021 England Dean Lewington
2022 England Scott Twine
2023 England Jamie Cumming
2024 England Alex Gilbey
2025 Not awarded[b]

Source:[148]

  1. ^ Due to the club's relegation to League Two at the conclusion of the 2017–18 season and overall poor performance, Chairman Pete Winkelman decided not to award a Player of the Year honour.[145]
  2. ^ Due to the team's poor performance over the season, a club awards ceremony was not held.[147]

Club staff

[edit]
As of 19 September 2024[149][150]

Managerial history

[edit]
Main article: List of Milton Keynes Dons F.C. managers

Honours

[edit]

League

Cup

Source: MKDons.com

Records and statistics

[edit]
Main article: List of Milton Keynes Dons F.C. records and statistics
See also: Milton Keynes Dons F.C. league record by opponent

Milton Keynes Dons Women

[edit]
Main article: Milton Keynes Dons F.C. Women

The club founded a women's association football team in 2009. They operate as part of the club with an identical badge and strip, and as of the 2018–19 season, the team share Stadium MK as their home stadium with their male counterparts, one of the first clubs in the country to do so.[152] They compete in the FA Women's National League South.

Footnotes

[edit]

References

[edit]
[edit]
Revisions and contributorsEdit on WikipediaRead on Wikipedia

Milton Keynes Dons F.C.

View on Grokipedia
from Grokipedia

Milton Keynes Dons Football Club (MK Dons) is an English professional association football club based in Milton Keynes, Buckinghamshire, that competes in EFL League Two, the fourth tier of the English football league system. The club originated from the 2003 relocation of Wimbledon F.C. from south London to Milton Keynes, a move approved by the Football Association but vehemently opposed by the majority of Wimbledon's supporters, who viewed it as a rootless franchise operation detached from its historic community base, prompting them to establish AFC Wimbledon as a phoenix club in 2002 to preserve the original identity and fan culture. Renamed Milton Keynes Dons in 2004 upon adopting a new crest and identity, the club has since built its operations around Stadium MK, a modern 30,500-capacity venue developed by club owner Pete Winkelman as part of broader urban regeneration efforts in the area. MK Dons' most notable achievement came in the 2014–15 season, when they secured promotion to the Championship via the League One play-offs under manager Karl Robinson, only to suffer immediate relegation the following year after finishing bottom of the second tier. The club has also claimed the League Two title once, in 2007–08, the same season in which they won the Football League Trophy. Despite these milestones, the club's legacy remains inextricably linked to the relocation controversy, which continues to fuel animosity with AFC Wimbledon—manifesting in boycotted fixtures and persistent fan resentment—and underscores debates over football's traditional emphasis on geographic and communal continuity versus economic pragmatism in club sustainability.

Formation and Relocation Controversy

Background and Rationale for Relocation

Wimbledon F.C. encountered severe financial distress in the early 2000s, driven by the collapse of the ITV Digital broadcasting deal in 2002, which eliminated anticipated revenue streams for many lower-tier clubs, compounded by chronically low attendance after relocating to share Crystal Palace's Selhurst Park ground in 1991 following the sale of their Plough Lane stadium. The club recorded operating losses, with turnstile receipts insufficient to cover operational costs, leading to a cash-flow crisis that culminated in administration on 6 June 2003 after failing to pay May wages and other creditors. Efforts to secure a permanent home in the Merton area, including proposed developments, had repeatedly failed due to local opposition, planning delays, and funding shortfalls, leaving the club without a viable long-term base and facing potential expulsion from the Football League if debts remained unpaid. The Norwegian-backed ownership group, having explored alternative sites, identified relocation as the only path to survival, prioritizing a move that could deliver a new stadium and renewed commercial viability over dissolution. In 2001, developer Pete Winkelman, via his Inter MK consortium, advanced a proposal to host the club in Milton Keynes—a planned "new city" established in 1967 with a population exceeding 200,000 but no professional football team—leveraging existing plans for a multi-sport stadium originally earmarked for national ice hockey facilities. The rationale emphasized rescuing the club from insolvency through access to a state-of-the-art venue funded by Winkelman's property developments, alongside the opportunity to establish professional football in an underserved market with potential for higher sponsorship and fan growth, as opposed to continued instability in south London. Winkelman later described the relocation as a necessary intervention to prevent extinction, despite acknowledging its contentious execution.

The FA Approval Process

The Football Association (FA) initiated a formal review of Wimbledon Football Club's proposed relocation to Milton Keynes following referrals from the Football League, amid the club's ongoing financial distress and lack of a permanent home ground since departing Plough Lane in 1991. In May 2002, the FA appointed an Independent Commission to adjudicate the matter, tasked with assessing whether the move—spanning approximately 70 miles from south London—aligned with the principles of English football's community-based structure. The commission deliberated on evidence including Wimbledon's daily losses of around £20,000, repeated failures to secure a new stadium in the Wimbledon area despite multiple planning attempts, and the absence of viable local alternatives that could sustain the club's First Division status. On 28 May 2002, the commission approved the relocation by a 2–1 majority, citing "exceptional circumstances particular to Wimbledon Football Club" as justification, including the prospect of a new 28,000-seat stadium in Milton Keynes as part of a £100 million development, set to open in August 2004. The majority argued that denying the move risked the club's extinction, given its mounting debts and operational instability at Selhurst Park, where it shared facilities with Crystal Palace. The dissenting member emphasized risks to football's traditional ties between clubs and their localities, but the decision was binding under Football League rules, with no appeal mechanism available to the FA. The FA publicly opposed the relocation on grounds of preserving supporter communities, the integrity of the National League System, and opposition to franchising models, viewing the case as a potential threat to English football's non-commercial roots. Nonetheless, it accepted the commission's one-off ruling, explicitly stating it should not set a precedent for other clubs seeking distant relocations. The approval facilitated the club's physical move to the National Hockey Stadium in Milton Keynes in September 2003, though subsequent financial issues delayed full stadium construction.

Immediate Aftermath and AFC Wimbledon Formation

The approval of Wimbledon F.C.'s relocation to Milton Keynes by an independent Football Association commission on 28 May 2002, decided by a narrow 2–1 majority despite unanimous opposition from an initial FA panel, elicited widespread condemnation from supporters and football authorities alike. The decision, which overrode Football League recommendations against the move, was viewed by many as a betrayal of the club's south London roots, exacerbating years of fan alienation due to financial instability and nomadic tenancy at Selhurst Park. In direct response, disillusioned Wimbledon fans established AFC Wimbledon on 30 May 2002 as a phoenix club to reclaim the district's football heritage, rejecting the franchising-like relocation as antithetical to English football traditions. Structured as a supporter-owned entity via a democratic members' society, AFC Wimbledon entered the Combined Counties Football League Premier Division for the 2002–03 season, drawing initial crowds exceeding 4,000 despite starting from the ninth tier. The formation represented a rare successful fan-led rebirth in professional football, fueled by grassroots mobilization including open trials on Wimbledon Common and a pledge to return to Merton. The original club's transition intensified the schism, with the team completing its physical move to the National Hockey Stadium in Milton Keynes in September 2003 amid boycotts that decimated attendance—averaging under 3,000 in its debut season there, compared to over 7,000 peaks at Selhurst Park. Retaining the Wimbledon F.C. name temporarily through the 2003–04 campaign, it endured further isolation, including exclusion from some local supporter networks, before rebranding as Milton Keynes Dons F.C. on 4 July 2004 to signal a fresh identity under new ownership led by Pete Winkelman. This period cemented enduring resentment, with AFC Wimbledon fans largely refusing recognition of MK Dons as legitimate successors and ongoing disputes over historical assets like trophies, resolved only partially in a 2003–04 legal settlement favoring AFC Wimbledon.

Post-Relocation History

Establishment and Initial Challenges (2004–2006)

Milton Keynes Dons Football Club formally came into existence on 21 June 2004, following the Football League's approval of the name change from Wimbledon F.C., with the club's assets and liabilities fully transferred after exiting administration on 1 July 2004. The team adopted the National Hockey Stadium as its temporary home ground, a facility originally built for field hockey in 1995 and adapted for football with a capacity of approximately 15,000, though attendances remained low amid ongoing fanbase divisions from the relocation. The 2004–05 League One season began under manager Stuart Murdoch, who had led the predecessor club since 2002 but was sacked after three months due to a winless start in the first five league matches. Jimmy Gilligan briefly served as caretaker manager before Danny Wilson took over on 8 December 2004. Under Wilson, the Dons secured survival on the final day, finishing 22nd with 52 points and benefiting from Wrexham's 10-point deduction for financial irregularities, which preserved their position on goal difference. The subsequent 2005–06 campaign exposed deeper challenges, including squad inconsistencies and failure to build momentum, culminating in a 22nd-place finish and relegation to League Two after accumulating only 42 points. Wilson was dismissed on 11 May 2006, shortly after the season's end, highlighting the period's managerial turnover and on-field struggles as the club sought to stabilize post-relocation and administration.

Promotions and Trophy Success (2006–2010)

Under Martin Allen's management, Milton Keynes Dons finished fourth in League Two during the 2006–07 season, accumulating 84 points from 25 wins, 9 draws, and 12 losses, which qualified them for the promotion playoffs. In the playoff semi-finals against Shrewsbury Town, the Dons won the first leg 2–0 away but lost the second leg 1–2 at home, resulting in a 3–2 aggregate defeat after extra time. Paul Ince assumed the managerial role for the 2007–08 campaign, leading the club to the League Two championship with a record of 29 wins, 12 draws, and 5 losses, securing automatic promotion to League One. Additionally, Ince guided the team to victory in the Football League Trophy, defeating Grimsby Town 2–0 in the final at Wembley Stadium on 30 March 2008, with goals from a Keith Andrews penalty and a Sean O'Hanlon header; this marked the club's first major trophy since relocating to Milton Keynes. Ince departed for Blackburn Rovers in June 2008, and Roberto Di Matteo was appointed as his replacement on 2 July 2008. Under Di Matteo, the Dons finished third in League One in 2008–09, earning a playoff spot, but were eliminated in the semi-finals by Scunthorpe United. The 2009–10 season saw mid-table consolidation with a seventh-place finish and no further playoff qualification or silverware, ending the period without additional promotions or trophies.

Mid-Tier Stability under Karl Robinson (2010–2016)

Karl Robinson was appointed manager of Milton Keynes Dons on 10 May 2010, becoming the youngest manager in the Football League at the age of 29. In his debut season of 2010–11, the team finished fifth in League One with 77 points, qualifying for the playoffs where they reached the semi-finals before losing to Peterborough United. The following year, 2011–12, MK Dons again secured fifth place with 80 points and advanced to the playoff semi-finals, defeating Huddersfield Town in the first leg but falling short on aggregate. The 2012–13 and 2013–14 seasons saw mid-table consolidation, with eighth place (70 points) and tenth place (60 points) respectively in League One, reflecting steady performance without playoff contention. A highlight during this period came in the 2014–15 League Cup, when MK Dons defeated Manchester United 4–0 on 26 August 2014, with goals from Will Grigg (two), Benik Afobe, and Tom Hitchcock, marking one of the competition's notable upsets. Robinson described the victory as putting the club "on the map," countering ongoing criticism related to its formation. In 2014–15, MK Dons achieved promotion by finishing second in League One with 91 points, scoring a league-high 101 goals, though they lost the playoff final to Preston North End in a prior context—no, direct promotion via league position. The club confirmed automatic promotion on 3 May 2015 after a 5–5 draw with Yeovil Town, bettering Preston's result elsewhere. However, in the Championship during 2015–16, they struggled to 23rd place with 39 points, suffering relegation back to League One. Robinson departed by mutual consent on 23 October 2016 after a poor start to the 2016–17 League One campaign, having overseen 346 matches with 146 wins, 77 draws, and 117 losses—a 42.9% win rate. His tenure established competitive consistency in League One, punctuated by playoff runs and promotion, though the brief Championship stint underscored challenges at higher levels.

Decline and Relegations (2016–2019)

Following relegation from the Championship on 23 April 2016 after a 4–1 defeat to Brentford, which confirmed their 23rd-place finish with a record of 9 wins, 12 draws, and 25 losses for 39 points, Milton Keynes Dons entered League One under continued management of Karl Robinson. Despite the drop, Robinson departed by mutual consent on 23 October 2016, with the team sitting one point above the relegation zone after 15 games, marking the end of his six-year tenure that had previously delivered promotions and stability. Richie Barker served as caretaker manager until early December 2016, when Robbie Neilson was appointed on 12 December, arriving from Hearts. Under Neilson, the Dons finished the 2016–17 League One season in 12th place with 16 wins, 13 draws, and 17 losses, accumulating 61 points, avoiding further peril but showing inconsistent form with only 7 home wins. The 2017–18 season exposed deepening issues, as Neilson was sacked on 22 January 2018 after a run that left the team in the lower reaches. Dan Micciche, a 29-year-old former Chelsea youth coach, took over but won just three of 16 games, leading to his dismissal in April with three matches remaining and relegation looming; Keith Millen then acted as caretaker. The Dons ended 23rd with 11 wins, 12 draws, and 23 losses for 45 points, confirming relegation to League Two on 28 April 2018 after a 0–2 home loss to Scunthorpe United, having scored only 44 goals across the campaign amid recruitment failures and a lack of firepower to replace Robinson-era contributors. Managerial turnover and suboptimal signings contributed to the slide, with the club struggling to replicate prior attacking output and defensive solidity, resulting in back-to-back relegations within three years of Championship promotion.

Partial Recovery and Managerial Turnover (2019–2023)

Following the dismissal of Paul Tisdale on 2 November 2019, after a winless run that left the club in the League One relegation zone with just one victory in their first 12 league matches, Russell Martin was appointed head coach. Martin, a former Norwich City player and coach, implemented a possession-oriented style emphasizing high pressing and build-up play from the back. In the curtailed 2019–20 season, MK Dons secured survival with a 19th-place finish, accumulating 37 points from 35 matches, including nine home wins that proved crucial amid the COVID-19 disruptions. The 2020–21 campaign marked a clear upturn under Martin, with the team finishing fourth in League One and qualifying for the playoffs; they recorded 24 wins, the highest in the division, and set a British record for the longest goal-scoring sequence with 56 passes in a March match against Tranmere Rovers. However, they were eliminated in the playoff semi-finals by Wycombe Wanderers, losing 2–1 on aggregate despite a spirited performance. Martin's departure to Swansea City in July 2021 followed this progress, attributed to his desire for a higher-profile role after achieving 82 points in 46 league games. Liam Manning succeeded Martin on 13 August 2021, bringing experience from coaching roles at Ipswich Town, and continued the emphasis on proactive, attacking football. In 2021–22, MK Dons again reached the playoffs with a third-place finish, tallying 75 points and scoring 80 goals, but fell in the semi-finals to Wycombe Wanderers for the second consecutive year, defeated 2–0 in the second leg after a 1–1 first-leg draw. Manning's tenure soured in 2022–23 amid defensive frailties and a poor run, with only five league wins in the first 20 games; he was sacked on 11 December 2022 following a 2–0 home defeat to Fleetwood Town. Subsequent managerial instability defined the latter half of 2022–23. Caretaker Dean Lewington, the club's long-serving captain, oversaw two matches before Mark Jackson was appointed on 23 December 2022. Despite sporadic improvements, including a nine-game unbeaten run in January and February, inconsistencies persisted, with the team conceding 74 goals overall. Relegation to League Two was confirmed on 7 May 2023 after a 0–0 draw with Burton Albion on the final day, leaving MK Dons in 20th place with 49 points from 46 matches—their first drop to the fourth tier since 2008. This period highlighted recruitment challenges and an inability to convert promising league positions into promotion, amid three head coaches in under six months.

League Two Period and Promotion Efforts (2023–present)

Following relegation from EFL League One at the conclusion of the 2022–23 season, Milton Keynes Dons entered the 2023–24 EFL League Two campaign under head coach Graham Alexander, who had been appointed on 27 May 2023. Alexander's tenure ended on 16 October 2023 after a winless start that left the team in the relegation zone, prompting his dismissal. Mike Williamson succeeded him on 17 October 2023, initially stabilizing the side with a focus on defensive organization and youth integration. Under Williamson, the Dons achieved a fourth-place finish with a record of 23 wins, 9 draws, and 14 losses, accumulating 78 points. This positioned them for the promotion play-offs, but they were eliminated in the semi-finals by Crawley Town, losing 3–0 in the first leg on 7 May 2024 and 5–1 in the second leg on 11 May 2024, for an 8–1 aggregate defeat. The 2024–25 season began with continued expectations of promotion under Williamson, bolstered by a Kuwaiti consortium's acquisition of majority ownership in August 2024, which injected financial resources aimed at squad enhancement and infrastructure. However, a poor start led to Williamson's departure on 19 September 2024, after which he joined Carlisle United. Scott Lindsey was appointed head coach on 25 September 2024, bringing experience from guiding Crawley Town to the League Two play-offs. Lindsey's spell proved unsuccessful, with the club languishing in mid-table and enduring a run of just two wins in 14 league matches, culminating in his termination on 2 March 2025 while in 17th place. Veteran captain Dean Lewington, holding the club record for appearances, announced his retirement in April 2025 after over two decades of service. Paul Warne was appointed head coach on 15 April 2025, with four league games remaining in the 2024–25 season, inheriting a squad he described as having untapped potential despite the campaign's disappointments. Warne, previously successful at Rotherham United and Derby County, emphasized rebuilding momentum under the new ownership's vision. The Dons avoided further decline in 2024–25 but failed to mount a serious promotion challenge, finishing outside the top seven. Entering the 2025–26 season with renewed ambition, Warne's side has shown early promise, occupying third place after 13 matches with 7 wins, 3 draws, and 3 losses as of late October 2025, positioning them as contenders for automatic promotion or the play-offs. This period reflects ongoing efforts to leverage financial backing and managerial expertise to restore competitive edge, though inconsistent results highlight challenges in squad cohesion and tactical adaptation.

Infrastructure and Operations

Stadium and Training Facilities

Stadium MK, located in the Denbigh district of Bletchley in Milton Keynes, Buckinghamshire, serves as the home ground for Milton Keynes Dons F.C. since its opening. The stadium, designed by architectural firm Populous, initially opened with a capacity of 22,000 seats in July 2007, featuring an integrated 122-room hotel in the West Stand, and was officially inaugurated on 29 November 2007 by Queen Elizabeth II. Its current capacity stands at 30,530 seats following expansions, making it one of the largest venues in English football's lower tiers, though average attendances for Dons matches typically range around 6,000. The club hosted its inaugural match there on 18 July 2007 against a youth Chelsea XI in a restricted-attendance friendly. The stadium includes modern amenities such as four stands (North, East, South, and West), floodlights, undersoil heating, and a hybrid pitch system installed for durability, with a full reconstruction undertaken in May 2025 ahead of the 2025–26 season to enhance playing conditions. Beyond football, it hosts concerts, rugby, and other events as a multi-purpose venue, but the Dons utilize it primarily for League Two home fixtures and training sessions when not shared. Milton Keynes Dons' primary training facilities are based at Woughton on the Green, a site in Milton Keynes featuring multiple grass and artificial pitches, a sports pavilion with changing rooms, and basic fitness and medical amenities. As of mid-2025, the club initiated significant upgrades to this location, including pitch resurfacing and facility enhancements, as part of a broader operational reset under new ownership to improve player development and match preparation. These works, nearing completion by August 2025, address longstanding concerns over infrastructure adequacy highlighted in club assessments. Plans for a dedicated high-performance training ground at the National Bowl site received outline approval in February 2023, envisioning two full-sized grass pitches, four training grids, and supporting buildings like gyms and offices for year-round use. However, as of October 2025, development remains in the planning phase with potential announcements on progression delayed, leaving Woughton as the operational base. The club also leverages Stadium MK for occasional sessions and community programs through affiliated trusts.

Kit and Sponsorship History

Milton Keynes Dons F.C. adopted a red, white, and black color scheme for its kits upon formation in 2004, reflecting the club's rebranding from Wimbledon F.C. while incorporating elements inspired by the new Milton Keynes location. The home kit typically features a red shirt with white accents, white shorts, and red socks, though variations have occurred across seasons. Kit manufacturing partnerships have evolved with the club's league status and commercial needs. A-Line served as the initial supplier from 2004 to 2006. This was followed by Surridge in 2006–2007, Nike from 2007 to 2010, ISC in 2010–2012, Vandanel in 2012–2013, Sondico from 2013 to 2015, Erreà from 2015 to 2022, and Castore from 2022 to 2025. In June 2025, Reebok was announced as the new official kit provider and technical partner on a multi-year deal, debuting bespoke designs for the 2025–2026 season that emphasize the club's identity and the city's grid-road layout.
PeriodKit Manufacturer
2004–2006A-Line
2006–2007Surridge
2007–2010Nike
2010–2012ISC
2012–2013Vandanel
2013–2015Sondico
2015–2022Erreà
2022–2025Castore
2025–presentReebok
Shirt sponsorships have provided key revenue, starting with Marshall Amplification from 2004 to 2009, a deal tied to the club's early stabilization under new ownership. DoubleTree by Hilton sponsored from 2009 to 2012, aligning with the club's push for mid-table League One security. Case Security held the front-of-shirt position from 2012 to 2014, followed by Suzuki as the incumbent sponsor since 2014, extending through the 2025–2026 season and supporting infrastructure investments like training facilities. Additional sleeve and shorts sponsorships have varied, often featuring local businesses or national brands, but primary front sponsorships have remained consistent with fewer changes compared to kit suppliers.
PeriodMain Shirt Sponsor
2004–2009Marshall Amplification
2009–2012DoubleTree by Hilton
2012–2014Case Security
2014–presentSuzuki

Supporter Base and Culture

Growth of Fan Support

The formation of Milton Keynes Dons in 2004, following the relocation of Wimbledon F.C. to Milton Keynes, resulted in initial fan support that was predominantly local and modest, as many original Wimbledon supporters rejected the move and formed AFC Wimbledon in protest. At the National Hockey Stadium, the club's temporary home from 2003 to 2007, crowds were limited by the venue's adapted capacity of around 10,000 and lack of established allegiance in the planned city of Milton Keynes, with a record attendance of 8,306 for a League Cup match against Tottenham Hotspur on 25 October 2006. Average attendances in these early League One seasons remained in the low thousands, reflecting the challenge of cultivating a new fanbase in an area without deep-rooted football traditions. The relocation to Stadium MK in July 2007, a purpose-built 30,500-capacity venue, coincided with on-pitch improvements, including promotion to League One via playoffs in 2008, which began to attract larger local audiences through enhanced facilities and family-oriented events. Attendance grew with sustained mid-tier performance, peaking during successful League One campaigns; for example, playoff semi-final and final legs in 2008 drew 17,250 and 20,718 respectively. By the mid-2010s, averages often surpassed 8,000–10,000 in higher divisions, supported by community initiatives that emphasized accessibility in a commuter-heavy region. Recent years show fluctuation tied to league position and results, with a 2023–24 League Two average of 6,855 dropping over 26% to 6,171 in 2024–25 amid mid-table struggles and managerial changes, as acknowledged by club staff. Early 2025–26 figures indicate partial recovery to 7,472 after six matches, placing the club among League Two's top drawers, roughly 300 higher than pre-Stadium MK levels. The club maintains a database of approximately 50,000 supporter contacts for engagement surveys and has implemented annual fan plans to foster loyalty, though underutilization of Stadium MK's capacity underscores a dedicated but not expansive core fanbase built organically over two decades. This growth trajectory correlates causally with promotional successes and infrastructure investments rather than inherited fandom, enabling resilience despite periodic dips from poor performance.

Rivalries and Fan Dynamics

The primary rivalry for Milton Keynes Dons F.C. stems from the 2004 relocation of Wimbledon F.C. to Milton Keynes, which led to the club's rebranding as MK Dons and the subsequent formation of AFC Wimbledon as a phoenix club by dissenting supporters. This schism created a deep-seated animosity, particularly from AFC Wimbledon fans, who view MK Dons as an illegitimate "franchise" continuation lacking authentic heritage, while MK Dons supporters often embrace the matchup as a competitive fixture. The clubs first met competitively on 2 December 2012 in the FA Cup, with 15 subsequent encounters yielding eight wins for MK Dons, four for AFC Wimbledon, and four draws as of October 2024. AFC Wimbledon's refusal to fully acknowledge MK Dons—such as omitting the opponent's name from scoreboards—resulted in a 2017 Football Association charge for breaching regulations, underscoring the rivalry's intensity and one-sided cultural rejection. Secondary rivalries exist with geographically proximate clubs, including Wycombe Wanderers (a Buckinghamshire derby) and Northampton Town, alongside competitive tensions with Peterborough United from shared promotion battles in League One. Fan surveys rank AFC Wimbledon overwhelmingly as the top rival (56.5% of rivalry points), followed by Wycombe (12.8%) and Peterborough (12.6%), reflecting both historical grudges and regional proximity. MK Dons' supporter base operates through organized groups like the Milton Keynes Dons Supporters Association (MKDSA), an independent body representing fans' interests, and DonsAction, which focuses on matchday atmosphere in designated stadium blocks. The club maintains a Supporters' Board comprising diverse fans for input on operations and a 2025–26 Fan Engagement Plan integrating these groups to foster community ties. Average home attendances hover around 7,000–8,000 in League Two as of the 2024–25 season—above the division's typical 6,000 but stark against Stadium MK's 30,500 capacity, leading to perceptions of sparse crowds and contributing to narratives of limited organic growth. This dynamic is compounded by the club's controversial origins, which alienate broader English football fandom while cultivating a resilient local identity centered on modern facilities and youth development rather than deep-rooted traditions.

Community and Youth Development

Community Outreach Programs

Milton Keynes Dons F.C. supports community outreach through the Milton Keynes Dons Community Trust, an independent registered charity aligned with the club that leverages football and sports to engage local residents and promote positive social outcomes. The Trust, rebranded from MK Dons Sport and Education Trust on August 11, 2025, to better reflect its charitable focus, delivers programs aimed at skill development, health improvement, and reducing anti-social behavior among participants of all ages and abilities. Key initiatives include the Premier League Kicks program, which targets young people at risk of anti-social behavior by providing structured football sessions to foster engagement and deter negative activities. Inclusion sessions cater to individuals with disabilities, offering specialized activities such as wheelchair football, walking football, pan-disability football, and unified football for deaf or hearing-impaired participants, with participation in these programs rising 30% over the second half of the 2022–23 season. Recreational offerings extend to women's walking football programs and goalkeeping development camps, designed to build confidence and physical activity across diverse groups. Seasonal camps form a core component, with summer holiday football camps open to all ages and abilities for skill enhancement, including hundreds of free spaces funded through a 2025 partnership with Kellogg's to support families during school breaks. Similar half-term events, such as the Spooktacular Camp for ages 8–14 held October 27–31, 2025, emphasize inclusive, structured activities. Annually, the Trust engages over 50,000 participants aged 3 to 96 through these and related efforts, prioritizing outreach to deprived areas and diverse ethnic backgrounds. The club amplifies outreach via charitable partnerships, designating Willen Hospice and Milton Keynes Hospital Charity as official partners for the 2025–26 season to fundraise for health-related community causes. Additionally, since 2021, MK Dons has collaborated with Her Game Too to combat sexism in football, including dedicated match-day initiatives like the March 6, 2025, fixture against Morecambe. These programs underscore a commitment to broad accessibility, though measurable long-term impacts beyond participation growth remain tied to ongoing evaluations by the Trust.

Academy and Player Pathways

The Milton Keynes Dons academy operates as a Category Three status program under the Elite Player Performance Plan (EPPP), focusing on talent identification, development, and progression for players primarily aged 9 to 21. This classification provides structured funding and standards from the English Football League, emphasizing holistic player growth including education and welfare alongside technical skills. The academy integrates with the club's community trust initiatives, offering pre-academy pathways such as Advanced Centres and Player Development Centres for younger talents, with entry often via trials or scouting. Player pathways emphasize gradual integration from youth teams to senior football, including scholarship programs at under-18 and under-21 levels competing in EFL youth leagues. A development squad, introduced to bridge the gap between academy and first team, exposes promising players to senior training environments and match pressures, as highlighted by academy staff in 2025. Recent partnerships, such as with A95 in May 2025, extend pathways by linking external youth programs in London to MK Dons trials and scholarships, targeting players aged 7-16 for potential integration. Loans to non-league or lower-tier clubs supplement progression, with several academy products securing professional contracts, like Jay Bird, Charlie Pattison, and Matthew Sorinola in June 2019. Notable academy graduates include midfielder Dele Alli, who debuted for the first team in 2012 before transferring to Tottenham Hotspur for £5 million in February 2015, representing a significant financial return. Other successes encompass forward Sam Baldock, the first prominent product to reach professional levels with over 100 appearances before moving to clubs like Brighton & Hove Albion; defender George Baldock, who progressed to Sheffield United and Greece international duty; and striker Brandon Thomas-Asante, now at West Bromwich Albion. Between 2017 and 2021, at least 15 academy players made first-team debuts, including Sam Nombe and Dylan Asonganyi, underscoring consistent output despite League Two status limiting resources compared to higher-category academies. Facilities support development through access to Stadium MK for matches and training pitches at the nearby Bowl site, secured via a 2019 agreement with Milton Keynes Development Partnership, enhancing grass-level and indoor options. During EFL Youth Development Week in September 2025, the club highlighted staff contributions to player transitions, with academy graduates occasionally featuring in first-team squads under managers prioritizing youth integration. Success metrics remain modest relative to Category One programs, with pathways prioritizing sustainable progression over high-volume exports, aligned with the club's mid-tier EFL position.

Personnel

Current First-Team Squad

As of October 2025, Milton Keynes Dons F.C.'s first-team squad for the 2025–26 EFL League Two season comprises 27 registered players across goalkeepers, defenders, midfielders, and forwards, reflecting recent signings such as centre-back Marvin Ekpiteta in August 2025 and right-back Kane Wilson on loan from August 2025, with no major incoming transfers reported in October. Squad numbers were officially confirmed by the club on 31 July 2025.
No.PositionPlayerAgeNationality
Goalkeepers
1GKCraig MacGillivray32Scotland/England
27GKConnal Trueman29England
33GKTom Finch (loan from Norwich City U21)19England
Defenders
21CBMarvin Ekpiteta30England/Nigeria
15CBLuke Offord25England
32CBJack Sanders26England
22CBJon Mellish (loan)28England
23CBLaurence Maguire28England
4CBNathan Thompson34England/Wales
35CBCharlie Waller20England
12RBKane Wilson (loan)25England
2RBGethin Jones30Australia/Wales
25RBPhoenix Scholtz19Northern Ireland
Midfielders
18CMWill Collar28England
6CMLiam Kelly29Ireland/England
20CMKane Thompson-Sommers24England/Jamaica
16RMAaron Nemane28France/England
14LMJoe Tomlinson25England
7AMDan Crowley28England/Ireland
8AMAlex Gilbey30England
24AMConnor Lemonheigh-Evans28Wales
Forwards
11RWNathaniel Méndez-Laing33Guatemala/England
17RWJonathan Leko26England/DR Congo
10CFAaron Collins28Wales
13CFCallum Paterson31Scotland/England
29CFRushian Hepburn-Murphy27England/Jamaica
9CFScott Hogan33Ireland/England
The squad's average age stands at 28.1 years, with 10 foreign players representing 37% of the total. Recent outgoing loans include defender Callum Tripp to Bedford Town on 1 October 2025.

Coaching and Management Staff

The head coach of Milton Keynes Dons F.C. is Paul Warne, appointed on 15 April 2025 after managing Derby County and Rotherham United.
RoleNameAppointment/Notes
Head CoachPaul WarneJoined 15 April 2025
Assistant Head CoachRichie BarkerPart of Warne's initial staff
First Team CoachDarren PotterJoined 13 May 2025
Head of GoalkeepingTom WealReappointed 6 June 2025
The club's management includes chairman Fahad Al-Ghanim, overseeing strategic direction, and CEO Neil Hart, responsible for operations across the Stadium MK group. Additional football operations are led by director Simon Crampton, with support from head of football administration Martin Harris and head of physical performance Jared Roberts-Smith.

Historical Managers

The first manager of Milton Keynes Dons F.C., formed in 2004 following the relocation of Wimbledon F.C., was Stuart Murdoch, who served from 1 July 2004 to 8 November 2004. Subsequent appointments included several interim and permanent roles, with Paul Ince holding the position twice and Karl Robinson serving the longest tenure of six years. The club has seen 23 managers or caretakers as of October 2025, reflecting periods of stability and frequent changes amid competitive challenges in the English Football League.
ManagerNationalityTenureNotes
Stuart MurdochEngland1 July 2004 – 8 November 2004First manager
Jimmy GilliganEngland9 November 2004 – 6 December 2004Interim
Danny WilsonNorthern Ireland7 December 2004 – 10 May 2006
Martin AllenEngland21 June 2006 – 24 May 2007Win percentage: 50.91% over 55 games
Paul InceEngland25 June 2007 – 30 June 2008Win percentage: 60% over 55 games
Roberto Di MatteoItaly1 July 2008 – 30 June 2009Win percentage: 51.92% over 52 games
Paul InceEngland3 July 2009 – 9 May 2010Second spell; win percentage: 41.07% over 56 games
Karl RobinsonEngland10 May 2010 – 23 October 2016Longest-serving; 340 games, win percentage: 42.94%
Richie BarkerEngland24 October 2016 – 3 December 2016Interim
Robbie NeilsonScotland3 December 2016 – 20 January 2018Win percentage: 37.88% over 66 games
Dan MiccicheEngland23 January 2018 – 21 April 2018Win percentage: 18.75% over 16 games
Keith MillenEngland22 April 2018 – 30 June 2018Caretaker
Paul TisdaleEngland1 July 2018 – 2 November 2019
Russell MartinScotland3 November 2019 – 31 July 2021
Dean LewingtonEngland3 August 2021 – 12 August 2021Interim
Liam ManningEngland13 August 2021 – 11 December 2022
Dean LewingtonEngland12 December 2022 – 22 December 2022Interim
Mark JacksonEngland23 December 2022 – 9 May 2023
Graham AlexanderScotland27 May 2023 – 16 October 2023
Mike WilliamsonEngland17 October 2023 – 18 September 2024
Dean LewingtonEngland18 September 2024 – 24 September 2024Interim
Scott LindseyEngland25 September 2024 – 2 March 2025
Ben GladwinEngland3 March 2025 – 14 April 2025
Paul WarneEngland15 April 2025 – presentCurrent as of October 2025
Caretaker roles by club captain Dean Lewington have been frequent during transitions, underscoring internal stability measures. Win percentages are calculated from competitive matches managed.

Achievements and Statistics

Major Honours

Milton Keynes Dons secured their first major honour in the 2007–08 season by winning the Football League Trophy, defeating Grimsby Town 2–0 in the final at Wembley Stadium on 1 April 2008, with goals from Keith Andrews and Sean O'Hanlon. This victory marked the club's inaugural professional trophy following its relocation and rebranding in 2004. In the same 2007–08 campaign, the club achieved promotion as champions of Football League Two, finishing with 92 points from 46 matches under manager Paul Ince, thereby securing a second major honour that season. No further major titles have been won by the club as of 2025, though it earned promotion from League One via second place in 2014–15 and from League Two via playoffs in 2018–19.

Competitive Records

Milton Keynes Dons achieved their highest-ever league finish of 23rd place in the Championship during the 2015–16 season, following promotion as League One runners-up the previous year. The club's lowest recorded league position since relocation was 22nd in League Two in the 2018–19 season. Overall, in league competitions from the 2004–05 season through 2025–26, the team has compiled a record of 397 wins, 230 draws, and 341 losses. The largest margin of victory in league play occurred on 20 December 2014, with a 7–0 win over Oldham Athletic in League One. In cup competitions, the biggest win was a 6–0 defeat of Nantwich Town in the FA Cup first round on 12 November 2011. Conversely, the heaviest defeat came in the EFL Cup third round on 23 September 2015, losing 0–6 to Southampton. In domestic cups, the furthest progression in the FA Cup was to the fifth round in the 2012–13 season. The EFL Cup's deepest run reached the fourth round in 2014–15, highlighted by a 4–0 second-round upset over Manchester United on 26 August 2014. The club has not advanced beyond these stages in either competition.
CompetitionRecord WinsRecord Losses
League One7–0 vs. Oldham Athletic (20 Dec 2014)Not specified in primary records
EFL CupN/A0–6 vs. Southampton (23 Sep 2015)
FA Cup6–0 vs. Nantwich Town (12 Nov 2011)Not specified in primary records

Notable Individual Contributions

Dean Lewington holds the club record for most appearances, with 917 matches played from 2004 to his retirement at the end of the 2024–25 season. As a long-serving left-back and captain, his loyalty and defensive consistency anchored multiple squads across leagues, earning him the Freedom of the City of Milton Keynes in recognition of his on-field leadership and off-field community involvement. Izale McLeod is the all-time leading goalscorer for Milton Keynes Dons, netting 71 goals across two spells at the club between 2006 and 2013. His prolific output included a club-record 24 goals in the 2006–07 League Two season, which propelled the team toward promotion contention and established him as a key attacking force during the club's formative years. Dele Alli emerged as a standout academy product, scoring 24 goals in 88 appearances from 2012 to 2015, with his dynamic midfield play and goal contributions central to the 2014–15 League One promotion via playoffs. Alli's breakout performances, including multiple hat-tricks, highlighted the club's youth development efficacy before his transfer to Tottenham Hotspur. David Martin, the club's second-most capped player with over 270 appearances primarily as goalkeeper between 2004–2006 and 2010–2017, provided shot-stopping reliability during periods of league transition and cup runs.

References

  1. https://fbref.com/en/squads/fcf5b1e1/Milton-Keynes-Dons-Stats
  2. https://apnews.com/article/afc-wimbledon-mk-dons-461cb27d0017e5c20301af3f7d4605ea
  3. https://www.soccerhistory.co.uk/milton-keynes-dons-fc
  4. https://fbref.com/en/squads/fcf5b1e1/history/Milton-Keynes-Dons-Stats-and-History
  5. http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport2/hi/football/teams/w/wimbledon/2968272.stm
  6. https://www.accountancyage.com/2003/06/06/wimbledon-fc-slides-into-administration/
  7. https://www.theguardian.com/football/2003/jun/06/newsstory.sport3
  8. https://www.theguardian.com/football/2003/jun/07/newsstory.sport3
  9. https://www.tntsports.co.uk/football/same-shirt-same-name-same-attitude-why-wimbledon-fc-couldn-t-just-move-to-milton-keynes_sto8503439/story.shtml
  10. https://www.cbssports.com/soccer/news/how-do-you-replace-a-football-club-how-afc-wimbledon-were-born-after-wimbledon-fc-left-to-become-mk-dons/
  11. https://www.lowerleaguelook.co.uk/2025/02/28/the-bitter-legacy-of-mk-dons-and-afc-wimbledon-a-tale-of-relocation-identity-and-unyielding-resentment/
  12. https://www.skysports.com/football/news/11719/8248332/winkelman-regrets-dons-move
  13. https://www.bbc.com/sport/football/20329528
  14. https://www.theguardian.com/football/2002/may/28/newsstory.sport9
  15. https://www.independent.co.uk/sport/football/football-league/wimbledon-move-to-milton-keynes-is-approved-190380.html
  16. https://www.theguardian.com/football/2021/aug/21/the-battle-for-wimbledon-realpolitik-versus-romance-in-football
  17. https://www.theguardian.com/football/2002/aug/22/newsstory.sport9
  18. http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport2/hi/football/teams/w/wimbledon/2012312.stm
  19. https://wimbledoninsportinghistory.org/football/
  20. https://www.theguardian.com/football/blog/2012/nov/27/peter-winkelman-mk-dons-afc-wimbledon
  21. https://www.theguardian.com/football/2004/jun/21/newsstory.mkdons
  22. https://www.theguardian.com/football/2004/jul/01/newsstory.mkdons
  23. https://www.soccerbase.com/teams/team.sd?team_id=2812&teamTabs=managers
  24. https://www.fchd.info/MK-DONS.HTM
  25. https://www.bbc.co.uk/threecounties/content/articles/2006/05/11/danny_wilson_110506_feature.shtml
  26. https://fbref.com/en/squads/fcf5b1e1/2006-2007/Milton-Keynes-Dons-Stats
  27. https://www.miltonkeynes.co.uk/sport/football/mk-dons/a-look-back-at-mk-dons-disappointing-play-off-history-4616228
  28. https://www.transfermarkt.us/milton-keynes-dons/erfolge/verein/991
  29. http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport2/hi/football/7309420.stm
  30. https://www.theguardian.com/football/2008/mar/30/newsstory.sport4
  31. http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport2/hi/football/teams/m/milton_keynes_dons/7484484.stm
  32. https://www.fleetwoodtownfc.com/10-things-you-didnt-know-about-mk-dons/
  33. https://www.transfermarkt.us/karl-robinson/profil/trainer/13985
  34. https://www.bbc.com/sport/football/28951006
  35. https://www.mkdons.com/news/2020/may/on-this-day-live-yeovil-2015/
  36. https://www.bbc.com/sport/football/37745985
  37. https://www.footballdatabase.eu/en/player/details/105464-karl-robinson
  38. https://www.theguardian.com/football/2016/apr/23/mk-dons-relegated-league-one-brentford-championship-match-report
  39. https://fbref.com/en/squads/fcf5b1e1/2015-2016/Milton-Keynes-Dons-Stats
  40. https://fbref.com/en/squads/fcf5b1e1/2016-2017/c15/Milton-Keynes-Dons-Stats-League-One
  41. https://fbref.com/en/squads/fcf5b1e1/2017-2018/matchlogs/c15/schedule/Milton-Keynes-Dons-Scores-and-Fixtures-League-One
  42. https://www.bbc.com/sport/football/43846791
  43. https://www.skysports.com/football/news/11759/11351870/mk-dons-what-are-the-problems-that-have-led-to-league-two-drop
  44. https://www.worldfootball.net/teams/milton-keynes-dons/9/
  45. https://fbref.com/en/squads/fcf5b1e1/2019-2020/Milton-Keynes-Dons-Stats
  46. https://www.bbc.com/sport/football/articles/c4g2x2knwg9o
  47. https://www.bbc.com/sport/football/63361291
  48. https://www.mkdons.com/news/2021/august/liam-manning-named-head-coach-of-mk-dons
  49. https://www.bbc.com/sport/football/65439612
  50. https://fbref.com/en/squads/fcf5b1e1/2023-2024/Milton-Keynes-Dons-Stats
  51. https://www.espn.com/soccer/match/_/gameId/672577/milton-keynes-dons-salford-city
  52. https://www.footballwebpages.co.uk/match/2023-2024/league-two/crawley-town/milton-keynes-dons/489073
  53. https://prostinternational.com/2024/08/19/what-does-mk-dons-new-owners-need-to-address-as-the-pressure-grows-on-williamson/
  54. https://www.bbc.com/sport/football/articles/cvgl09z0e32o
  55. https://www.bbc.com/sport/football/articles/c1jdx1k8098o
  56. https://www.mkdons.com/news/2025/april/07/dean-lewington-to-end-record-breaking-mk-dons-playing-career/
  57. https://www.mkdons.com/news/2025/april/15/paul-warne-joins-mk-dons-as-head-coach/
  58. https://www.bbc.com/sport/football/articles/cvgp4k301r0o
  59. https://efl.com/competitions/efl-league-two
  60. https://www.bbc.com/sport/football/articles/cvg8zy0dyv7o
  61. https://www.mkdons.com/stadium-mk
  62. https://populous.com/showcases/stadiummk
  63. https://www.football-stadiums.co.uk/grounds/england/stadium-mk/
  64. https://www.facebook.com/MKDonsOfficial/posts/stadium-mks-pitch-has-started-a-complete-reconstruction-to-prepare-for-the-2526-/1231574281672747/
  65. https://www.stadiummk.com/
  66. https://www.miltonkeynes.co.uk/sport/football/mk-dons/woughton-work-is-a-part-of-a-big-reset-at-mk-dons-5197262
  67. https://www.miltonkeynes.co.uk/sport/football/mk-dons/details-emerge-of-mk-dons-plans-to-upgrade-woughton-training-ground-5144209
  68. https://www.facebook.com/mkcitizensport/posts/work-on-the-training-ground-at-woughton-is-nearly-completeread-the-latest-in-the/1878006893018286/
  69. https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/c0k78w8zn88o
  70. https://www.miltonkeynes.co.uk/sport/football/mk-dons/training-ground-plans-could-be-unveiled-by-mk-dons-owner-early-in-the-new-year-4914413
  71. https://www.mkdonsset.com/facilities
  72. https://www.historicalkits.co.uk/Milton_Keynes_Dons/Milton_Keynes_Dons.htm
  73. https://www.footballkitarchive.com/mk-dons-kits/
  74. https://kitbliss.co.nz/data/clubs/mk-dons.html
  75. https://www.mkdons.com/news/2025/june/18/milton-keynes-dons-power-up-with-reebok/
  76. https://www.footballkitarchive.com/mk-dons-sponsor-history/
  77. https://www.oldfootballshirts.com/en/teams/m/milton-keynes-dons/sponsors-t83.html
  78. https://hoppersguide.com/2007-national-hockey-stadium-milton-keynes-dons/
  79. https://www.11v11.com/teams/milton-keynes-dons/tab/stats/option/attendances/
  80. https://www.transfermarkt.us/milton-keynes-dons/besucherzahlenentwicklung/verein/991
  81. https://www.miltonkeynes.co.uk/sport/football/mk-dons/harvie-brutally-honest-about-attendances-at-stadium-mk-4523465
  82. https://www.mkdons.com/news/2025/june/13/annual-supporters-survey-2025/
  83. https://www.mkdons.com/news/2025/august/21/25-26-fan-engagement-plan/
  84. https://www.mkdonsset.com/
  85. https://www.mkdons.com/news/2025/august/11/mk-dons-set-rebrand-to-milton-keynes-dons-community-trust-appoint-paul-mitchell-as-ceo/
  86. https://www.mkdonsset.com/community-programmes
  87. https://www.horizonradio.com/blogs/horizon-radio-milton-keynes-community-noticeboard/post/mk-dons-community-trust/
  88. https://www.mkdons.com/news/2023/february/mk-dons-set-inclusion-sees-participation-increase-by-30%
  89. https://www.miltonkeynes.co.uk/community/mk-dons-community-trust-launches-free-summer-camp-spaces-in-partnership-with-kelloggs-5262815
  90. https://www.charitytoday.co.uk/parents-champion-the-role-of-mk-dons-community-trust-and-its-kelloggs-football-camps/
  91. https://www.mkdonsset.com/become-a-fott
  92. https://www.mkdons.com/news/2025/october/01/mk-dons-announce-charity-partners-for-25-26/
  93. https://www.mkdons.com/news/2025/march/06/mk-dons-proud-to-support-her-game-too/
  94. https://playerscout.co.uk/mk-dons-academy/
  95. https://www.premierleague.com/en/footballandcommunity/youth-development/eppp
  96. https://www.mkdons.com/news/2020/july/mk-dons-pre-academy-programmes--express-your-interest/
  97. https://www.mkdons.com/teams/academy/
  98. https://www.miltonkeynes.co.uk/sport/football/mk-dons/troso-is-keen-to-see-dons-development-squad-succeed-in-bridging-the-gap-between-academy-and-first-team-5322037
  99. https://www.mkdons.com/news/2025/may/16/MK-Dons-partner-with-A95-for-25-26-season/
  100. https://www.lfe.org.uk/news/mk-dons-agree-pro-deals-with-academy-trio/
  101. https://vitalfootball.co.uk/top-10-mk-dons-youth-academy-graduates/
  102. https://www.miltonkeynes.co.uk/sport/football/the-15-mk-dons-academy-graduates-to-play-for-the-first-team-in-the-last-four-years-3373858
  103. https://www.mkdons.com/news/2019/september/new-training-facility-for-mk-dons-at-the-bowl2/
  104. https://www.mkdons.com/news/2025/september/16/efl-youth-development-week-ben-smith/
  105. https://jobs4football.com/blog/how-does-the-eppp-category-system-work/
  106. https://www.transfermarkt.us/milton-keynes-dons/kader/verein/991/saison_id/2025
  107. https://www.fotmob.com/teams/8645/transfers/milton-keynes-dons
  108. https://www.mkdons.com/news/2025/july/31/mk-dons-25-26-squad-numbers-confirmed/
  109. https://www.soccerbase.com/teams/team.sd?team_id=2812&teamTabs=transfers
  110. https://www.bbc.com/sport/football/articles/c8rgvxlmv2po
  111. https://www.mkdons.com/club/whos-who
  112. https://www.managerstats.co.uk/clubs/milton-keynes-dons/
  113. https://www.mkdons.com/news/2020/march/lewie-reflects-on-important-moment-in-clubs-history/
  114. https://www.11v11.com/teams/milton-keynes-dons/tab/honours/
  115. https://www.stevesfootballstats.uk/milton_keynes_dons_club_record.html
  116. https://www.transfermarkt.us/milton-keynes-dons/rekordspiele/verein/991
  117. https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/football/28847955
  118. https://www.mkdons.com/news/2025/september/23/Dean-Lewington-awarded-Freedom-of-the-City-of-Milton-Keynes/
  119. https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/articles/c4g2lkve48xo
  120. https://therealefl.co.uk/2025/07/17/mk-dons-top-ten-players-of-all-time/
  121. https://www.mkdons.com/club/history/records
  122. https://www.transfermarkt.us/dele-alli/leistungsdatenverein/spieler/207929
  123. https://www.bbc.com/sport/football/29251977
  124. https://www.transfermarkt.com/milton-keynes-dons/rekordspieler/verein/991
Add your contribution
Related Hubs
User Avatar
No comments yet.