It's a shame we can't keep him - Lewington praises Laird

The future for Ethan Laird is unlikely to see him come back to MK Dons on loan next season which is a disappointment for Dean Lewington.

Playing on the right side of the defence for the last few weeks, Lewington has been keeping a closer eye on the Manchester United loanee and has been more than impressed by what he has seen.

Manager Russell Martin has said Laird is unlikely to return to Stadium MK next season, and the captain has said playing in combination with the wing-back has highlighted to him just how good he is.

"It's a different dynamic on the right," he said. "It's a bit more direct with Ethan, using his raw pace. I'm still getting used to playing with him but it's working pretty well. He just need a bit of encouragement and the freedom to express himself. I try and do as much of his defensive duties as I can to help him express himself.

"He's really improved since he first came here, he's come on leaps and bounds.

"It's just a shame we won't get to keep him."