Martin is eager to pick a consistent team

After making six changes to his side to face Wigan on Tuesday night, Russell Martin admitted he is not a fan of rotating his side for every game.

Switching out over half of the team which started against Blackpool came after he made four changes at Bloomfield Road too, but the manager believes consistency in his side is almost upon him.

With players missing pre-season training, others suffering injury, suspension, dips in form and being wrapped in cotton-wool to protect them during this hectic run of games, Martin has not named the same 11 once so far this campaign.

Carlton Morris and Louis Thompson are set to return to the squad at the very least for Saturday's game against AFC Wimbledon, while David Kasumu returns from suspension after the trio missed Tuesday night's win over Wigan. And it leaves Martin with a selection headache after a solid showing against the Latics at Stadium MK.

"I don’t like rotating my team to be fair," said Martin. "It’s been forced upon us due to injuries, pre-season, and a number of factors. I’d love to have the same team but it’s not the way its fallen for us at the moment.

"Those who played Tuesday probably feel they’ve a right to play again, we might have to make a couple of changes, but we’re really close to having a consistent team every week and getting all the guys in their best shape. I think when players are in a place where they can play – it’s up to them to keep their shirts."

Tuesday's win saw Dons climb from 23rd to 17th in League One, highlighting just how tight the table remains after the first eight games. With Dons stringing together back-to-back wins at home, and AFC Wimbledon visiting on Saturday, Martin highlighted the importance of building momentum and confidence should they pick up another three points.

He added: "It’s so early that two or three wins climbs you up the table, the same applies for defeats. Teams are really tight in terms of points and it’s important for us to get some momentum and get back to back wins.

"It’s important for us, every game is a chance for three points and a chance for us to buid on a good performance form Tuesday. If we do, the league position probably changes again.

"We’re not focused on that just now, but we have to make sure we pick up as many points as possible to make sure we’re in the best place come the end of the season."