Dan Crowley completed his switch to Milton Keynes Dons on Tuesday evening from League Two rivals Notts County.
But that wasn’t the only thing that the 27-year-old left behind after departing for Nottingham. The move left a bitter taste among County supporters, which was only amplified by his comments after joining the Buckinghamshire outfit.
Recent Meeting Between The Sides
On Boxing Day, Notts County travelled to Stadium MK and defeated the hosts in a tightly fought encounter, thanks to a goal and assist from their midfielder with ten goal contributions for the season. Looking back at the game just a few weeks ago, Crowley had some interesting comments that have ruffled some feathers at his old side.
“It was a little bit like an audition, I wanted to show everyone what I can do here, it was quite awkward that day, to be honest. I know a lot of people here – Carl Laraman, Aaron Nemane, Scott Hogan – and everyone knew my situation, and that MK were interested in me.
“It was a strange day. In the back of my head, I had a feeling I’d be here in a few weeks,” Crowley said.
The Feeling From Meadow Lane
It wasn’t just the fans that Crowley had frustrated though. Over the summer, County were keen to tie down one of their key assets to a new deal. But in a statement from the Magpies confirming his departure, the board of directors commented on how those discussions had ended.
“Unfortunately, however, Dan’s expectations exceeded what we were prepared to offer. We have many strong options in his area of the pitch and we’re very confident the squad can mount a strong challenge for promotion without him.” – Notts County’s Board of Directors.
Replacements Ready To Thrive
County have already moved to sign new forwards Will Jarvis on a three-and-a-half-year deal from Hull City and Charlie Whitaker. The latter joins permanently after scoring seven times in nine PL2 games for Everton this campaign.
The Magpies have also been boosted by Conor Grant’s return from injury, having only managed eleven league games so far this campaign. Last season’s League Two Player of the Season Jodi Jones and Curtis Edwards are back in the frame too.
Writer’s View
Given all the press surrounding this transfer, it is now time for both sides to move on until they meet in April. Dan Crowley should be a big signing for MK Dons, but Notts County are well equipped to deal with the loss. With a forward line that includes ten-goal forward David McGoldrick, along with Alassana Jatta who has fifteen goal contributions, Notts County should have no worries in the forward department for their promotion push.
