MK Dons interim head coach Ben Gladwin has admitted he is not considering taking the job permanently as the club continues its search for a new manager.
The 32-year-old, who stepped in following Scott Lindsey’s sacking, is preparing for his third game in charge but insists his focus remains solely on the upcoming fixtures rather than his long-term future.
With no update from the club on their recruitment process, Gladwin remains committed to his short-term role but has expressed an interest in management as a future career path.
“It doesn’t serve anybody for me to be looking off into the future when we’ve got Port Vale on Saturday. All I can do is prepare the team for Saturday to get a good performance.”
Family commitments take priority
While some interim managers may use their stint as an opportunity to stake a claim for the job permanently, Gladwin insists he has had little time to think about it, especially with personal commitments at home.
“I really have not considered (taking the job permanently). My wife is seven weeks from giving birth, so when I get home, I’m bombarded with my eight-year-old and my wife.
“While I’m here at work, I’m not thinking about anything other than the present moment: speaking to players, the group, planning training, preparing for games. I’ve not overly considered it.”
MK Dons keeping options open
The club has yet to announce any significant developments in their search for a permanent head coach. However, Gladwin confirmed that he has been kept informed of the process and has received full support from the club hierarchy.
“The club are running a process, as they should. There will be a lot of people interested in this job. (The club) have been really open with me, really supportive, and anything I’ve needed they have been there to help.”
Gladwin’s experience in the dugout has been a valuable learning curve, having previously taken charge at Crawley Town in a similar interim capacity.
“It’s not easy, but I’m just trying to be completely honest. Some guys will walk out and not like it, but it is the easiest way for me and it helps me sleep at night… a little easier, anyway.
Writer’s view
Gladwin’s approach to the interim role is pragmatic. While he has managerial ambitions, he is not allowing speculation over his future to distract from the task at hand. His honesty and measured approach are commendable, but with the club yet to announce a permanent successor, it remains to be seen whether results on the pitch will influence his chances of being considered for the role full-time.
For now, Gladwin is focused on ensuring MK Dons remain competitive as they navigate this transitional period. Whether he remains in the dugout beyond the next few weeks is a question only time—and performances—will answer.
