MK Dons kicked off their pre-season against Barnet from the National League, with an eventful second half resulting in a 1-2 defeat for Mike Williamson’s side. What did we learn about MK Dons from this match?
Conor Grant may transition into a holding midfielder:
At 22 years old, Grant joined MK Dons in 2022 primarily as an attacking midfielder known for his ability to split defenses with precise passes. Despite occasional lapses in influence during games, he proved pivotal alongside Dawson Devoy as a top assist provider when MK Dons were relegated from League One in the 2022/23 season.
With a recent influx of midfield signings this summer, Grant faced uncertainty in his favored position. However, Williamson deployed him in a holding midfield role during the second half against Barnet, where he showcased exceptional skills. Grant displayed sharp ball control, confidently turning opponents in deep areas and facilitating build-up play from the back. He also contributed defensively with adept jockeying and timely challenges, drawing comparisons in style to Lewis Bate, known for dictating play for MK Dons last season.
The turnover in holding midfielders has been substantial for the Buckinghamshire club this summer, with loans ending for Bate and Jack Payne, and Ethan Robson’s departure. Initially, only MJ Williams remained, but subsequent signings like Liam Kelly and Tom Carroll have bolstered the squad. Grant’s established presence at MK Dons presents an opportunity for him to thrive in a new role.
Matt Dennis could be a solution to the striker position:
Following Max Dean’s departure to KAA Gent in the Belgian Pro League, MK Dons face a void in goal-scoring, swiftly addressed by Sporting Director Liam Sweeting with the acquisition of Callum Hendry from Salford City.
Yet, 22-year-old Matt Dennis, who struggled to make an impact since joining MK Dons in 2022 and during a loan spell at Sutton United in 2023, showed promise under Williamson’s guidance. Despite limited appearances last season, Dennis netted four crucial goals, including decisive strikes against promotion contenders Mansfield Town and Crewe Alexandra.
In the pre-season opener against Barnet, Dennis demonstrated his potential by capitalizing on an over-hit through ball to score. He exhibited a marked improvement in work ethic and mentality, previously criticized as lackadaisical, suggesting Williamson’s influence in motivating the young striker.
Williamson’s adept management has elicited top performances from players like wingback Joe Tomlinson and Dean. With Dennis now MK Dons’ primary young striker, he could be Williamson’s next success story.
Embrace youth:
Alongside Grant and Dennis, several academy prospects featured against Barnet, notably impressing with their contributions. Damerai Singh-Hurditt and Michael Brammeld caught the eye, while Brooklyn Ilunga and Callum Tripp, both having gained exposure in cup competitions last season, made promising strides.
Tripp, just 17, displayed composure in midfield rotations and control during the first half against Barnet. Ilunga, aged 20, provided dynamic wing play after replacing Tomlinson, demonstrating his readiness to step up in the absence of departed Daniel Harvie.
Amidst a summer of player turnover at MK Dons, opportunities abound for young talents like Tripp and Ilunga to assert themselves in the first team, rightfully earning their places through promising performances.
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