Defensive options abounds for Dons next season

Playing with a back three or a back four, Russell Martin believes he has defensive options to cover all bases next season.

Despite losing Jordan Moore-Taylor and Joe Walsh, and with Callum Brittain's future unsure too, Martin has recruited Daniel Harvie and Richard Keogh to bolster hid backline, while admitting he wants to see more from Baily Cargill and Regan Poole this season.

Though the latter pair were bit-part players for the club last season, Martin feels he has options with how to play next season.

He said: "We'll have a couple of formations which will allow us to be flexible. Last year, we had something we can really build on and develop. A back three is something I like and something we tried before, but we'll be doing it a bit differently. We will work on it during pre-season and see."

With Poole saying he knows he needs to master one position to thrive next season, George Williams too feels he wants to be recognised for one position.

He said: "I really enjoy centre half. I feel like I'm at my best there. I've had a few chats with the gaffer since he took over, and it's something we both agree that it's m-y best position. But you know me, I'll play anywhere and I'll put in a shift. But given the way we want to play, with the side centre-halves playing almost as full-backs, I'm happy to just play but I'd love to nail down a centre half position and go from there."

And that style of play is something Williams believes will see Dons thrive, adding: "I really enjoy it. I've played many different styles, here at the academy and at Loughborough, playing out from the back with the ball at your feet. It's something I really enjoy, it's the best way to play and the gaffer and Luke nail it down in training.

"It's a lot to take on but I really enjoy it. I want to improve on my performances last season and playing this style really suits me.

"We saw some passing stats and at times Lee (Nicholls) was playing more passes than most opposing players, which is pretty incredible. But Lee can do it, he's a special keeper with the ball at his feet and I think he's by far the best in the league."