Martin helps bring the best out of Healey

Not many players want to be dealt with a heavy hand, but Rhys Healey says he is thriving under manager Russell Martin.

Signed by Paul Tisdale in the summer, Healey made just six appearances for the former boss before getting injured during the warm-up against Blackpool in September.

Healey though said it was a kick he needed, and it is an approach which is paying dividends.

"He has made a huge difference," said Healey. "When he came in, he was quite tough on me, which I needed. He's got my standards right up there now. My training has improved massively. I always want to be a winner in training.

"As a former pro, he's got so much experience which helps us out a lot now he's manager, so he has been a massive thing for me."

Healey has scored in each of his last three games, and has netted nine in 16 appearances across the campaign. His goals have helped Dons turn the corner in recent weeks, and although he's delighted to be in great form, he is happy to be contributing to the cause.

He said: "It's an unbelievable feeling, but I've worked hard for this. It's not just for me, it's for the team, the coaching staff. As long as I can chip in with more goals, it will help all of us.

"It is good to know my ratio is good and I'm scoring, but I back myself so I want to score more and help the team out.

"When I signed in the summer, I didn't think anything (like his injury) would happen, but it's football, anything can happen. I'm back now, I worked so hard to get even fitter, and I think I'm getting the rewards for that, and now everyone else is getting the rewards on a Saturday."