Brittain feels great under new boss Tis

Callum Brittain has been one of the key men for Paul Tisdale this season

Uneasy with the nickname 'gaffer', Paul Tisdale prefers a shortened version of his name instead, not that 20-year-old Brittain knew before they met.

"When I came in, there were rumours about it and I thought the lads were having me on!" he said. "It does make a difference though, it integrates us with him. But it was tough (not to call him gaffer)!"

There is a lighter mood already in the MK Dons camp, and it's plain to see on the faces of the players who survived last season's turmoil. For Brittain, the last 12 months have been a breakthrough for him. From establishing himself in the side to becoming an England U20 international too, he has become one of Dons' most prized assets.

Callum Brittain teed up Dylan Asonganyi for Dons' third goal against Charlton

Their undefeated start to the season, now five games without a defeat, is the longest streak since March 2017. Brittain has played in all five games under Tisdale, playing in an advanced full-back role which has seen him get in the penalty area more than ever.

But despite conceding just two goals this season at the back, Brittain has been critical of his performances - for not scoring yet.

"I was very critical of myself at Crewe because I thought it should have done against them but it didn't happen," he explained. "I had a few chances against Grimsby too, but I feel it coming. I'm just keeping positive and trying to get my shots off. I'm loving it, to be fair. It allows me to improve going forward and defensively as well so there's a lot of energy.

"I feel really good about the start we've made, and feel I've personally contributed to it. The team are playing well, the defence has been solid so far and we're creating chances. Obviously, it's nice to getting back into an environment that's positive compared to how it was last season.

"The energy and positivity around the place just from winning the first two games was lovely and getting the last minute winner against Bury was nice too. You can tell the positivity is there in the way we're playing.

"Last season was a breakthrough for me, and a good season, but I want to play as high as possible and to do that I have to play as many games as I can, and that's my first aim. I'd like to get my assists and goals up as well."