Coach Smith wants to continue to build on Price’s goalkeeper groundwork

Coach Darren Smith wants to continue the good work Lewis Price did before him after taking over the role as goalkeeper coach at MK Dons.

Smith stepped into the role after Price’s cancer diagnosis earlier this season, taking over the position to overlook the likes of Jamie Cumming, Franco Ravizzoli and David Martin between the sticks.

Slotting into the role in Price’s absence though, Smith was quick to pay tribute to the former Ipswich and Wales keeper during his treatment, saying he wants to add to Price’s work so far at Stadium MK.

“It's important for me to send my best wishes to Pricey,” said Smith. “He's someone I know and someone I am desperate to get better, to come back to this club and do what he does best.

“The quality of the keepers here is a testament to his hard work, and I'm here to back that and hope he gets back fit again.

“I've loved it here so far. Coming in has been really easy for me, knowing the coaches for the best part of 10 years. Everyone has made me feel welcome.

“But whether you're older or younger, I'm here to develop goalies. They've all got habits I'd like to change and develop and make them better.

“You always start with a point at 0-0, so if we don’t let in a goal, the worst we can get is a point. Defending is a team-effort, we defend from the front and a clean sheet is a pat on the back for everyone.”

Speaking about Smith’s introduction to the coaching fold, Cumming said: “It has been good. Smudge has been brilliant, coming in in the last week, it's a new voice and offers something a bit different. It's been really positive.”