Martin's celebrations came off the cuff

"It was the end of a touch week for me outside of this building," said the manager
Russell Martin celebrates with the MK Dons fansRussell Martin celebrates with the MK Dons fans
Russell Martin celebrates with the MK Dons fans

It is something fans have come to expect from Russell Martin after a win, but his celebrations in front of the Dons fans originally stemmed from relief.

Martin's fist-pumps are met with equal cheer from the supporters after victories, first spotted against Oxford United in December when the manager picked up his first win in charge. Since then, fans have expected it whenever they pick up three points, and so far, Martin has not disappointed.

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But having a signature celebration was not something the manager set out to have, but was more an expression of his relief. It has stuck ever since.

"I never set out to celebrate like that after the Oxford game," Martin said. "It was the end of a tough week for me, outside of this building, so it was just relief to get the first win. Since then, it's something that has just happened.

Martin went on to praise the Dons fans for their support of him during his time as manager, adding: "The fans were brilliant to be as a player, and it is different as the manager, but they have made things so much easier. I had letters of support, and people really behind make after games, even when we didn't have that win. The players are celebrating with the fans now as well, and they're extremely grateful.

"It would be really easy for the fans to get impatient and not be supportive, but they have been brilliant and I hope that keeps strengthening."