Dons' Scottish duo earn manager's praise

Scott Fraser and Daniel Harvie both drew praise from manager Russell Martin after Dons' 2-0 win over Gillingham on Saturday.

Harvie returned from Scotland U21 duty, went straight back into the team and proved to be a vital outlet on the left flank. He should have had a goal to his name as well after a terrific dummy from compatriot Fraser, who was a key man in Dons' front line for a second week.

Manager Martin said Harvie's return to the side was a marked improvement from his previous return from international duty, and that the 22-year-old is beginning to believe he is good enough to be a regular in the side.

"Daniel Harvie is getting better every week," he said. "He came back from the last break not in great shape physically or mentally but he has come back better, more confident and he grew into the game. We need to tell him how good he can be so he can believe it. He still has fear, trepidation and doubt, but he can be very, very good.

"Some of his deliveries and his driving with the ball is why we brought him to the club. Looking down the team sheet, we've got so much strength in depth. We look around now and there's real quality and strength and people we trust. We will need all of them."

After Fraser's frank interview last week following defeat to Portsmouth, where he said he did not sign for MK Dons to sit bottom of the league, another excellent showing against Gillingham impressed his manager too.

"Some of his passing was outstanding," said Martin of Fraser. "He's got real clarity from what we're asking and where people are on the pitch. He's a fantastic player. He knows where we want him to improve, and he's doing it every day.

"I feel he could be the best midfielders in the league. He has a fantastic attitude. He knew coming here would really suit him, and he has been so frustrated so far because he is so ambitious. If we keep getting him into those positions, he will create chances."