MK Dons manager Roberto Di Matteo has hit out at claims that he doesn't know enough about League One football ahead of this Saturday's trip to Huddersfield.

The rookie Italian, who starred as a midfielder for Chelsea in the Premier League in the late 90s, has admitted that he's becomingly increasingly annoyed with people assuming he has little knowledge of the Dons' league rivals.

"Why is there an assumption that I don't know anything about League One?" he said.

"We know what threats the likes of Huddersfield have. We know they have just got in a very good loan player. We know all about that."

And Di Matteo is spot on, with the Terriers having just brought in one of the few players who gave them a tough time at the back during the course of last season – pacey striker Liam Dickinson.

The 22-year-old found the back of the net for Stockport in the Dons' 3-2 title-clinching win at Edgeley Park back in April and subsequently made a £750,000 move to Derby, who have decided to give him some game time on loan at The Galpharm Stadium.

But Di Matteo said his team have no reason to fear anyone this season and will go into Saturday's fixture with a positive frame of mind.
"Every game seems to be a big game for us, so we just prepare game by game," he said.

"Yes it is going to be a tough match for us, but we are ready and not afraid of anyone."

And Di Matteo's side could have more of a continental feel about it by kick-off time on Saturday.

The Dons boss is hoping he can include Canadian striker Ali Gerba in the squad after tying up the details of his work permit in his native country.

"He was due to play for Canada on Wednesday night in their World Cup qualifier with Jamaica but we are hoping to have him back for the game on Saturday. We really need every player we have available right now.

"The work permit has been a hassle. The English bureaucracy is not much better than the Italian one!"

And French midfielder Flavien Belson could also feature, with the Dons having completed a deal for the 21-year-old just yesterday (Wednesday).

The club have agreed to take over the player's registration from FC Metz for one season, with an option to purchase.

But one big worry for the Italian is influential defender Danny Swailes who is yet to complete a full 90 minutes this season and is still struggling to shake off his persistent injury.

"Danny is feeling his achilles again this morning and we will have to see how he reacts. So he will be a doubt for Saturday."