Newly installed MK Dons manager Paul Warne has given his initial impressions of some members of his squad following his first game in charge, as reported by MK Citizen.
Warne’s new side played out a goalless draw with Newport County to end a run of four straight defeats.
Warne’s First Game Ends In Stalemate
On his return to the dugout following his Derby County departure, Paul Warne secured a point for his MK Dons side that should confirm League Two football next season.
Before appointing Warne on Tuesday, MK Dons had lost four on the bounce and were stumbling to the end of a dismal campaign that saw Scott Lindsey relieved of his duties.
The former Rotherham United manager comes to Milton Keynes with an impressive CV that includes five promotions from League One and an EFL Trophy success.
The game between two sides in poor form produced little in the way of genuine goal-scoring opportunities but the boss saw enough positives to move forward.
Substitute Impresses On Comeback Trail
Jonathan Leko made only his sixth League Two appearance of the season as he continues his comeback from injury and the West Bromwich Albion academy product pleased his new gaffer.
Warne said:
“I thought Leko was ledge when he came on.”
“He’s right up my street. Anyone who is brave enough to take the ball in positions, to run at people and wants to play is.”
The 25-year-old is out of contract at Stadium MK in the summer but made a positive first impression on his new manager.
Heckled Player Causes Mayhem
During a disappointing 4-2 home defeat to Fleetwood Town three weeks ago, Liam Kelly was jeered as he left the pitch and has found himself out of the side until yesterday.
Speaking of Kelly, Warne said:
“Kells started to cramp up a bit but he was really good getting between the lines and causing mayhem.”
A Strong Goalkeeper Is Essential
This game wasn’t full of chances so it provided limited opportunities for either keeper to impress but Warne was pleased with what he saw from experienced stopper Craig MacGillivray.
“I don’t think he had a great deal to do. He came for a cross and a free-kick, which I love. I like my goalkeepers to be brave.”
“He was excellent, a real calming influence, and though he didn’t have a lot to do, but what he did do was spot on. I was really pleased with his performance.”
“There are certain things you need in a successful team and having a really strong goalkeeper is essential.”
Writer’s View
There is no doubt Warne’s appointment is a statement of intent from MK Dons with next season in mind. The club’s hierarchy will be hopeful their new manager can repeat his promotion successes of the past and these few weeks of assessing his squad will help the rebuilding process.
