It was not a full debut to remember for MK Dons’ Jay Matete

Midfielder Jay Matete’s first start for MK Dons did not end in ideal circumstances but Paul Warne has backed him to do big things at Stadium MK.

The 24-year-old had made three substitute appearances since signing from Premier League Sunderland earlier this month, before making his full debut on Tuesday night against Bristol Rovers.

Stepping into the centre of the park, replacing nearly ever-present Liam Kelly, Matete struggled to give Dons a level of control in the first-half against the hard pressing and man-to-man approach of the Gas. Unable to get up to speed with the game, Warne withdrew him at the break in favour of Kelly as Dons went on to claim their third win in a row.

Despite his half-time substitution, Warne was eager to defend the ex-Bolton loanee.

“Maybe it took Jay a little longer to get used to the pace of the game,” he said. “If it had been the game at the weekend, he’d have probably grown into it just fine.

“But tonight, the more he tried the harder it got. I’m not trying to embarrass the kid, he’s a great player and he’ll have a great future here but tonight wasn’t his night.

“I’ll openly admit I’m partial to a half-time sub if the team needs one. I made the change, put Kells on, and it could have been anyone if I thought they weren’t at their best. In fairness, Kells has been an outstanding performer this season.”