Gladwin afforded more freedom in Dons' system

His ability to read games has allowed Ben Gladwin to be given more freedom in MK Dons' system this season.

The 27-year-old has predominantly played a central role since signing for Dons in January, but has recently been playing at left wing-back for Russell Martin's side where he has grown in stature.

On Wednesday against Charlton, Gladwin played on both flanks as he swapped with Matthew Sorinola, and also floated through the middle of the park too, with the Addicks struggling to keep tabs on his whereabouts.

While the likes of Scott Fraser and Cameron Jerome have stolen headlines recently, Gladwin's impact has gone relatively unmentioned, but not by his manager.

"Let's keep him under the radar, shall we?!" said Martin. "He's a brilliant player who can play so many positions. He's two-footed, he's big, strong, athletic.

"We know we still have to manage him, but we also have to give him a bit of freedom because he's different to the other players. He has so much ability, he feels the situation on the pitch, senses when he can come inside or swap. But he also knows he has a lot of defensive responsibility when he plays that position but he gives us calmness and composure on the ball.

"He's in a really good place physically, so I'm really pleased. The more games he plays, the better and better he will get."