Martin wants to see more from outstanding Mason

Russell Martin was full of praise for striker Joe Mason after the striker netted a first half hat-trick against Fleetwood on Tuesday night.

Mason had only scored one goal this season prior to the game at Stadium MK, but quickly found the net after just four minutes, converting Ethan Laird's cross. He then capitalised on Scott Fraser blocking the view of keeper Joe Hilton to fire in his second after 20 minutes before pouncing on a defensive lapse to complete his hat-trick after 27 minutes.

Hear from Joe Mason on his hat-trick against Fleetwood hereAfter a stop-start career during his 18 months with MK Dons, Martin hopes the feat - Dons' first hat-trick since 2016 - will give Mason the confidence to become a more regular goal-scorer.

"Joe has got so much quality and I have so much belief in him," said the manager. "It's about getting his body 100 per cent right, which we haven't been able to do. He's got some minutes in him and tonight he was outstanding.

"His finishes – I'm not sure many strikers are able to do what he did on his weaker foot. Just outstanding. We need more of that from Joe. We need him on the pitch more, I'm really pleased for him."