Martin surprised by how good Darling is proving to be

Few have made more of an immediate impact since signing for MK Dons than defender Harry Darling.

The 21-year-old signed from Cambridge United, top of League Two, as a replacement for Richard Keogh following his shock departure to Huddersfield Town in the Championship.

Darling was already a target for Russell Martin, but had been earmarked for a summer bid, though Keogh's move brought forward the timeline to January. Since being thrust into the line-up though, Darling has taken to Dons' style without missing a beat. In his five appearances, Dons have won three, and drawn once - the only defeat coming in his debut against Charlton Athletic.

By no means a 'normal' centre back role, playing in the middle of Dons' defence demands a lot from the man in that position, and Martin has been delighted with the way Darling has not only adapted to it, but also how well he has slotted into his squad.

"It’s a tough role – I can tell you that because I played it against Cambridge yesterday!" the manager said. "It takes a lot of responsibility. I knew we were signing an excellent player and a good character but I didn’t think he’d adapt this quickly. His bravery and composure has been outstanding, he knows how we feel about what he needs to improve and he’s willing to work on it. As a 21-year-old who hasn’t played at this level he’s taken it on so well.

"He wants to learn and work hard and will be an important player for us. He’s such a good guy and I love him as a person and I love watching him as a player. He takes on so much pressure on young shoulders, that’ll never be lost for me, we have to accept there may be mistakes.

"He’s so mature for his age, it’s the same as Warren (O'Hora), they carry themselves like old school pros. They always want to do extra, they always ask questions and want to improve and learn. That’s more important to me as it determines what they can do, it’s a great attitude to have. Both have been incredible with that, it helps having Deano who has been so important.

"It’s exciting because they can only get better, we need to grow with them and hope we get to where we want together."