There is no place like home for MK Dons striker Nombe
The frontman spent five years away but is back at the place he calls home
Home is where the heart is for Sam Nombe and it proved a huge sway in bringing him back to MK Dons this summer.
The 27-year-old returned to Stadium MK in July after five years away, scoring goals aplenty for Exeter City and Rotherham United before heading back to the place where it all began.
On the fringes of the first-team when he departed in 2021, Nombe knew taking himself out of his comfort zone and putting himself out there was the best thing for his career at the time, a decision which has ironically led him back.
“When you go away, you want to go and prove yourself,” he said. “You’ve got to accept the challenges that come, take yourself out of the comfort zone and push yourself. I’m always up for the challenge, so I looked forward to playing football consistently.
“Getting that experience was definitely something I needed and I was happy to go out and get it.
“When I left, there was no ill-will or negativity, but I had to go and play. I felt I had more opportunities to play elsewhere and I needed to go and do that. As a footballer, you want to play week-in, week-out consistently and that’s what I got. It has helped me become the person I am today.”
Always keeping an eye on the club he grew up with during his time in Devon and Yorkshire, Nombe admitted he did not answer Dons boss Paul Warne’s initial call because he didn’t recognise the number.
The striker said: “He called me but I didn’t recognise the number, so he sent me a video on WhatsApp making clear that it was him calling me! He sent me a few AI images of me in the new kit as well!
“It was a nice feeling talking with him, understanding what he wants from me as a player, what he’s looking for and how he wants to progress the club, push forwards and get promoted. It drew me in, and to be honest, I was more than happy to come.
“I had a lot of good times when I was here before. It’s a great feeling to be back, and I’m excited. This is where I grew up, this my home, so I’m glad to be home.”