Five debuts for Dons - and they should want more

After five players were handed their MK Dons debuts on Wednesday night, Russell Martin has urged them to use it as inspiration to fuel them to go on to bigger and better.

Charlie Smith, Jack Davies, Lewis Johnson, Malakai Black and Josh Baily were given their first taste of professional football in the Papa John's Trophy at Stadium MK, and though the game ended in defeat, blame could not be laid at their door.

"Those five should be really proud and happy with how they contributed, but disappointed with two mistakes that were nothing to do with them," said the manager. "Lewis, Jack and Charlie were great from the start. I take Jack for granted because he has been with us for so long, but that was his debut.

"All three did really well, as did Josh and Malakai when they came on. It was so pleasing to see all five of them and putting in the performances they did. They shouldn't feel comfortable with one appearance but should want more to come.

"These guys have done themselves no harm at all. It will lead to more opportunities if they keep up their application. They've only been with us a short time, but this is what we're trying to do here.

"We're doing it the way we see fit for the club to move forward, and it's more important than ever to promote youngsters. We're playing a style of football which will accelerate their development quickly, and this is the start of their journey."