Lewington pleased to get new Dons deal done

Dean Lewington admitted he cannot go on forever, but was more than happy to sign a new contract to remain at MK Dons next season.

The club's captain will make his 800th MK Dons appearance if he plays on Saturday against Burton Albion at the Pirelli Stadium, and his new contract will take him into his 20th season as a professional.

Lewington has played 42 games this season already, and is showing no signs of slowing up despite a shift into the centre of defence this term after his career at left-back. However, he 36-year-old said he knows he cannot go on forever, but was eager to have his plans set for next season.

"I’m obviously very pleased,” Lewington said. “It’s been a successful season for me, personally, with the number of appearances I’ve made and the way I’m feeling so I’m very happy to be able to continue doing it.

“It’s been a real joy playing for Russ and Luke for the last 18 months. We have a really strong identity once again - we’re playing the right way and it’s a way that allows us to score some fantastic goals and helps develop players that we hope can take to next level.

“We’ve learnt a lot from this season and we’re improving all the time. We’re looking forward to the remaining games and then onto next season as well – hopefully with the fans back!

“I would love to be able to play every game again but I’m well aware that I am not going to be able to go on forever. I’ll just continue to do everything I can to work hard for the team – whether that’s playing on the pitch or helping my teammates off of it.”