Mason had to remain patient before getting a new Dons deal

Joe Mason said he was in regular contact with MK Dons boss Russell Martin even after his contract expired.

The 29-year-old has signed a new contract to come back into the squad, the fourth player this summer to have done so after Dean Lewington, Laurie Walker and Ben Gladwin before him. Callum Brittain is expected to become the fifth this week too.

After Mason was included on the 'released list' in June, manager Martin said he was still a man he wanted to be a part of Dons' squad for the new season but it would depend on the financial state of the club after the coronavirus pandemic.

“I’m over the moon,” Mason told iFollow MK Dons after completing his deal. "I spoke to Russ quite a lot over the Lockdown and he made it quite clear that he wanted me to stay. It was important that the Club got itself in a safe position first, but now I’m happy it’s done and it’s great to be back.

“Up until last season got cut short, I was really enjoying my time here. For me now it’s about staying injury free and showing what I can do.”