Gilbey has added a vital component missing from his first MK Dons spell

Captain Alex Gilbey believes he is answering some of the questions levelled at his during his previous time at MK Dons by becoming more of a goal threat this season.

The midfielder scored 11 goals in 105 appearances during his first spell at Stadium MK, but already has three this season - against Colchester, Sutton and Bradford - and he could lay claim to another couple too - getting a touch on Jonathan Leko’s shot at Crewe, and his effort was deflected into his own net by George McEachran against Swindon.

Critics of his first spell would have pointed to his goal contributions during that time, but Gilbey now believes he has become more of a threat this season.

“I want to score as many as I can, and I will probably be claiming Saturday’s one!” he said.

“It was the biggest question mark over me over the last few years, and when I was here last. I found a bit of form under Russ (Martin) but then the season finished early.

“It’s always been something hanging over me, people asking whether I can score goals, and I’ve always wanted to prove to people I can. Fortunately, I’m proving that this year.”

One of the most consistent performers of the season thus far, Gilbey feels he has understood what works for him in terms of preparation and recovery, allowing him to go into games feeling his best.

“I'm really happy (with my form),” he added. “It's the fittest I've ever felt, off the back of a really good season last year as well.

“I'm getting to the point now where I'm learning how to use my body properly, and I know what I have to do to prepare and recover from games.”