Ups, downs and frustrations but Tomlinson's Dons dream is within reach
It was back to where it all began for MK Dons wing-back Joe Tomlinson on Saturday at Crewe
“A lot has changed in the three years!” said Joe Tomlinson after Saturday’s win over Crewe Alexandra - the scene of his MK Dons debut back in 2023.
The 25-year-old has experienced all of the ups and downs the club has endured in that time, as well as some personal highs and lows too.
“I made my debut here under Graham (Alexander) and played right-wing,” he said on the Gresty Road touchline. “Then I was captain here last season when we won 1-0 and that was a big result for the club. It has been up and down!”
His first season proved to be a huge success, with seven goals and five assists making him a popular fixture amongst the supporters as Dons reached the League Two play-offs. In the subsequent two years though, the wing-back has produced the same number of goals and two fewer assists.
Injuries have certainly hampered his game time, making just nine league starts this season, while also falling behind Wigan loanee Jon Mellish in the pecking order at left wing-back.
With his contract up at the end of the season, Tomlinson is one of a number of Dons players who could walk away from the club in a couple of weeks. After joining from Peterborough United, Tomlinson had set his sights on helping the club make a return to League One and after two disappointing ends to the season, he hopes this season, while being a frustrating one from a personal point of view, will see him realise the aim at long last.
He said: “I’ve had some tough times this season, but the fans been fantastic non-stop for me and my family and I cannot thank them enough.
“I came to this club to get promoted, and I’m hoping I can achieve my dream here, and I really want to do it for the club and the fans. We’re nearly there. This is what we all wanted to do.
“From a team’s point of view of view, it has been a fantastic season but personally it has been frustrating. I’ve not had the minutes I’ve wanted recently, but he is the gaffer and I respect his decision so all I can do is stay ready, focussed and be ready when my opportunity comes, and it did today.
“I’m glad I’ve stayed fit and healthy. Hopefully there will be a few more minutes between now and the end of the season.”