Hard work was worth it as Davies makes his Dons league debut

The Papa John's Trophy has been a competition MK Dons have taken advantage of to blood their youngsters coming through the academy. Players like David Kasumu, Sam Nombe and Matthew Sorinola have all cut their teeth and made a name for themselves when they were afforded opportunities to play in the first team, establishing themselves as viable options heading into the league campaign.

So 14 months after his knee injury at Gillingham, Jack Davies finally pulled on his number 28 shirt to make his debut for Dons against Southampton U21s alongside fellow academy products Charlie Smith, John Freeman, Lewis Johnson, Malakai Black and Josh Bailey.

Two more appearances in the Trophy would follow, in the wins over Norwich U21s and then Northampton Town last week. But on Saturday, he made his league bow, coming on for the final 13 minutes after replacing Daniel Harvie at centre back.

Davies said: "I played a few pre-season games, I made my debut for the club in the Southampton U21s game which was a brilliant moment for the academy. I played in the Norwich game, came on against Northampton and then made my league debut against Peterborough

"Take away the result, on a personal note it's another milestone on what will hopefully be a long career.

"All the hours of my dad driving me to training, to away games, and for me too – all the hours as a kid I spent training, playing, it's excellent. It is any young lad's dream. I want to kick on now and see how far I can get."

His relationship with Martin from the off has been a blessing for Davies, who he praised for his support and the time he is willing to give not just to him, but everyone in his squad.

"I cannot say how much Russ has done for me, and Luke (Williams) too," said Davies. "They give you the chances, they're always doing extras after the session. If you asking him to help with a bit of heading, or a bit of technique work. He'll never say no, and that's what I love about them.

"No matter whether you're Dean Lewington, or in the academy, if you ask them to help, they will."