Physical demands of League One are still new to Laird

What you can get away with in League One is still something Ethan Laird is getting used to at MK Dons.

The 19-year-old Manchester United loanee has made three appearances for the club since joining earlier this month, but limped out against Fleetwood last time out after taking a string of heavy challenges.

Carrying no ill-effects from that game though, Laird says he is still getting used to the differences between the U23s football he was playing for United and regular League One encounters.

"The transition for me is more the physicality of it and what you can get away with," he admitted. "There are a few tussles you can do if the ball is in the air, you can do it and there are no questions asked! What I’m used to in 23s football is it is more harsh. It’s a learning curve for me because it’s stuff I’m not used too but I have to get used to it in order to adapt.

"It’s part of the game, I'm glad that Russ is putting his faith and trust in me. To get minutes learn makes me excited – I’m buzzing I really am."

Deployed at right wing-back in his three outings so far, Laird said his strengths lie in his attacking game rather than defensive responsibilities - a trait important to the way Dons play.

He said: "My A-game I would say is attacking anyway, so I've just been enjoying it to be honest!

"I wouldn't say the position is more attacking than defending, but the highlights are. At right-back you're one-on-one, getting out to your man, but at wing-back, the defending part is basically the same but higher up the pitch.

"The way we play, we have more of the ball so I guess I'm doing a bit more attacking but whenever we lose the ball, it's a quick press to get the ball back and do the best thing for the midfielders beside you.

"It’s exciting. I’ve had a few games which has been good for me and the manager has put trust in me which I’m glad he has. I hope I’ve impressed him what what I’ve done so far and long may it continue."