MK Dons manager Paul Warne says strengthening the full-back positions is now his top priority before the transfer window closes.
The League One side currently have just two recognised options in Gethin Jones and Joe Tomlinson, prompting a tactical reshuffle for Tuesday’s Carabao Cup trip to Bristol City.
With Jones unused and Tomlinson coming off the bench in the 2–0 defeat, Warne admitted the lack of depth in wide defensive areas is a growing concern. The head coach is eager to bring in reinforcements to avoid being left short if either player becomes unavailable.
Full-Back Shortage Clear
Speaking after the Ashton Gate tie, Warne was frank about the situation.
“I think we need more full-back cover. I don’t think we have enough and it’s becoming more evident. We tried to rest, look after and bubblewrap Gethin and Joe. I only put Joe on for a little bit at the end, which won’t be a problem. If anything were to happen to either of them, it’s a problem so it’s something we’re looking at in the market.”
The game saw new signing Marvin Ekpiteta complete his first 90 minutes since November, while Nathan Thompson and Scott Hogan both played an hour on their return from injury. Dan Crowley, an unused substitute, is also edging closer to involvement.
Warne rotated his system during the tie to manage fitness levels against a strong Championship opponent, noting the importance of minutes for players building towards full sharpness.
Squad Taking Shape
Despite the early Carabao Cup exit, Warne believes the squad is moving in the right direction as the new campaign settles. Injuries have disrupted early plans, but the gradual reintegration of senior players is a boost ahead of returning to league action.
“It was nice to get Marvin some minutes. The last few were bordering on precarious. We changed the shape a couple of times to save legs. It was Nath’s first game back, Scotty’s first game back, only been training for a week, so their output against a top Championship team is really good.
‘I had intended on giving Crowley some minutes but that didn’t happen. Will Collar got more minutes in his legs, and I don’t know how Aaron (Nemane) keeps going.”
With the September 1 deadline approaching, adding at least one new full-back remains a pressing issue for the Dons as they look to stay competitive across the season.
Writer’s View
MK Dons’ lack of depth at full-back is a clear vulnerability, and Warne’s public admission underlines the urgency to address it. While the return of experienced figures such as Thompson and Hogan is encouraging, the risk of disruption through injury in key areas is high.
Securing reliable options out wide will not only offer tactical flexibility but also safeguard against a repeat of the reshuffles seen at Ashton Gate. Recruitment in this position could be decisive in maintaining early-season momentum once the league schedule intensifies.
