Antony is o-Kay with Robbo

Kay came under criticism after scoring an own goal against Leeds on January 2, and hadn’t featured in the side since Dons’ 3-1 defeat to Bolton later that month, losing his place to Joe Walsh.

But returning to the heart of the defence after Walsh’s injury last week, Kay provided a faultless performance alongside Kyle McFadzean as Dons beat Ranger 2-0 at stadium:mk on Saturday.

And Robinson said the clean sheet, and the chance to prove himself again, meant a lot to Kay, who looks set for an extended run in the team.

“I thought he was excellent,” said Robinson. “The result meant so much to him. He loves playing football, and he loves this club. He has been almost ever-present in four years.

“People have their favourites, and sometimes because he was alongside the favourite he got the blame for some things. He’s a great guy, he works his socks off every day. If we stay up, he’ll be a very proud man because he cares so much for this club.

“It was a massive game for him.

“I don’t think his performances were bad, I think he only made two errors. And all of a sudden everyone was pointing fingers.

“He just loves football and loves playing for MK Dons. If we gave him the option, he’d finish his career here.

“But that’s a story that will be played out in the summer. He has a lot more football to play, but it’s a conversation we’ll have in the summer. He has been a great servant for me.”