“We want the game to pass respectfully, peacefully and safely, and we’ve stressed that to them”

Directors at MK Dons have written to AFC Wimbledon ahead of Thursday night’s game asking for their supporters to treated like any other in the EFL.

In previous years, fans travelling from Milton Keynes have complained about the treatment they have received from stewards at Plough Lane, while midfielder Harry Pell was fined and banned after he kicked balls at away fans ahead of the game in 2024.

Dons chief executive Neil Hart, who confirmed no club officials were offered seats alongside home side directors as per EFL regulation, said he had formally written to their south London rivals ahead of the game to ensure the safety of those travelling to watch the game from Buckinghamshire.

“I wrote to them earlier in the week asking them to make sure our supporters are looked after and treated with the dignity and respect they would for any other EFL club as we will do when they come to Stadium MK later this season,” he said.

“Obviously, there are a lot of nuances involved with the game. Me and my team have been in discussions with various individuals at AFC Wimbledon in the lead up to the game. We want the game to pass respectfully, peacefully and safely, and we’ve stressed that to them.

“I know the supporters really look forward to this one. We look forward to it too, but it brings some challenges. We’ll be happy as long as we’ve won the game.”

With Paul Warne’s side still seeking their first win of the season, drawing five of their opening six matches in League One, Hart said winning on Thursday night would be the ideal platform to kick-start the campaign.

“It’s a great opportunity to get our first win, live on TV,” he continued. “From a football point of view, we expect to go there, to be competitive and to try to win, that’s putting it very simply.”