No rush for Lewington to think about the future

Captain Dean Lewington said he is not looking towards next season yet, despite manager Russell Martin expressing a desire to keep him for another year.

The 36-year-old is approaching 18 years in the game, has already made 30 appearances for Dons this season and is showing no signs of easing up.

With Martin saying there will always be a place for his captain as long as he's at the club, Lewington said he's not looking too far into the future yet, but feels as long as he is playing regularly, he has no reason to hang up his boots.

"If Russ stays here for a long time, I'm alright aren't I!" he said.

"I'm playing regularly at the moment, so next season isn't a concern at the moment, I'm not looking too far ahead but as long as I feel good, I'm performing of an adequate standard and I'm wanted then I'll keep going. As soon as any of those things aren't the case then football is a brutal word and it will soon tell you."

Lewington lined up alongside Ethan Laird, Warren O'Hora, Harry Darling and Zak Jules in the defensive unit on Saturday - all of them signing for the club in January (though O'Hora was already at the club on loan from Brighton before his move was made permanent last month).

After seeing four players from the backline leave the club, Lewington said he is already impressed with the youngsters alongside him, singling Darling out in particular for his strong start to life at the club.

Lewington said: "We've been really impressed with the signing of Harry. Every game he has played he's looked better and better and he looks a really hood bit of business.

"Richard Keogh was a big part of the team, and we were starting to get a bit of form but Harry has come in and looks like he's been here the whole time. It's a really difficult position to play, compared to a four or even the way others play a three. It's quite unique so for him to come in and fit in so well is pleasing.

"Tying Warren down to a contract is good business as well because he's been a really big performer all season. Zak and Ethan have come in as well, so it's almost unrecognisable from two weeks ago. But it's really exciting. They're all youngish players, all very athletic and good on the ball, so it's really bright."