Bird aims for injury-free season after signing new Dons contract

The young striker wants to make an impression next season
Jay BirdJay Bird
Jay Bird

Jay Bird hopes he can enjoy an injury-free 2021/22 season after he put pen to paper on a new contract at MK Dons

The 20-year-old has endured a torrid two-years with knee injuries, limiting his progress and holding him to just four outings for the first team this season.

After recovering from knee surgery late in 2020, Bird made his comeback against Fleetwood Town before an outing in the final game on Sunday against Rochdale. And he completed his comeback by signing a new contract to secure his services for next season, where he hopes his injury woes will be over.

“It means everything to me to remain with the club,” Bird told iFollow MK Dons. “MK Dons is all I’ve ever known and it’s the best feeling ever to represent this club.

“It’s been a frustrating time for me with injuries but that’s football – it’s about how you bounce back from the setbacks and that’s what I’ll be looking to do.

“I’m grateful to Russ and the club for showing this faith in me. My main focus is on repaying that faith and showing everyone what I’m about.”

Manager Russell Martin told mkdons.com: “Jay has been really unfortunate with injuries but, in between, he’s shown real glimpses of ability and athleticism required to play senior football.

“He has worked hard with our brilliant medical team to get himself back to a level where he is able to train and perform consistently and he deserves another chance.

“It’s up to him, now, to come back for pre-season, fit and strong, and ready to fight and force his way into our plans.”