Martin backs Darling to be even better than him

Russell Martin has won promotion from every division, played in the Premier League and won caps at international level, but he believes Harry Darling will do even more than that.

The 21-year-old made a huge impression after arriving from Cambridge United in January, replacing the vastly experienced Richard Keogh following his transfer to Huddersfield Town.

So impressive were his performances in his 23 appearances since signing, he won the MKDSA Young Player of the Year prize as Dons turned from a team battling relegation to a team comfortably midtable.

Martin made 601 appearances during his career, and with Darling playing a similar defensive role as his manager, Martin believes Darling will be even better.

"He's going to be miles better than me!" said Martin. "The word is incredible. He's been asked to do a lot of different things from earlier in his career. He's playing at a higher level than he has before too. To win this award so soon is amazing. We know how far he can go and what we think, and where he needs to improve.

"We're grateful and lucky to have him, and hopefully we can keep him here for many years yet. If he continues to improve at this rate, it'll be an exciting time for all of us."