Mason is desperate for an injury-free 2021

Joe Mason just wants to play football - it's a simple thing to ask, but it has been harder to put into practice since signing for MK Dons.

Putting pen to paper back in August 2019, Mason has been limited to less than 30 appearances due to a string of injuries forcing him out of the side. His returns have been sporadic too, often suffering fresh setbacks when he looked poise for a regular stint in the side.

The 29-year-old made 19 appearances in 2020, but is edging back to fitness again now, with substitute appearances against Plymouth, Bristol Rovers and Swindon in recent weeks. And though it is a fairly simple request for a footballer to want, Mason just wants to play regular football once more.

"It sounds simple but I’ve found it difficult the last year or so: I just want to play football on a regular basis and perform to the level that I know I can.

"It’s been frustrating. During the first lockdown I worked hard to get my fitness back up and I felt good in pre-season, got going well but then got injured again. It’s very frustrating and annoying but I’m thankful now that I’m over that and looking forward.

"The injury side has been very tough because since I’ve been here I’ve had a few injuries that’s been the hardest thing as I’ve not had the chance to get going. Covid has been really tough on a personal level not seeing family. It’s been a bad year, hopefully, there is better times to come for everyone.

"It’s all about getting myself to a position where I can maintain my level and for me that’s staying fit for the rest of the season."

His opportunity may come in the next few weeks with the departure of Carlton Morris - recalled by Norwich for a move to Championship side Barnsley - and a run of quick-fire games again to get 2021 up and running, starting with this weekend's FA Cup third round game against Premier League side Burnley.

"It opens up another opportunity for me, I’m grateful for that. It’s all about getting myself to a position where I can maintain my level and for me that’s staying fit for the rest of the season.

"I try and put myself in positions to score, I should’ve scored in the last few games and I’m disappointed I haven’t. I should’ve scored against Peterborough, I fancy myself to score those chances.

"I try put myself into positions to score. The last few games I’ve come on in we’ve had total control of games. We seem to create a lot of chances in the second half. I’m trying to make an impact and help the team."