mkdons.com catches up with Pete Winkelman as the chairman provides updates on a number of topics...
Last season...
There’s no hiding from the fact it was a hugely-disappointing campaign. In hindsight, we would have done many things differently but we all learnt a lot, which will stand us in good stead for next season. I would be more concerned if we were looking back at the season without understanding what went wrong, but we know the mistakes we made and the improvements we need to make, which means I can be excited and optimistic for the season ahead.
Next season...
With the play-offs now complete, there are definitely some exciting games to look forward to next season. There are already a number of big teams in League One such as Sheffield United, Bradford City, Coventry City and Millwall. We will renew our battle with Peterborough United and also take on local sides Northampton Town and Oxford United, who both had fantastic seasons and were deservedly promoted. And, of course, the eyes of the footballing world will be on us as we meet AFC Wimbledon in the league for the first time.
Karl Robinson...
There has once again been speculation surrounding Karl’s future but I’ve seen first-hand how hard he is working to assemble the best possible squad for next season. Karl and I are in regular contact and my relationship with him, as it is with all the first-team staff, is as strong as ever. Everyone is on the same page and working well together.
Players...
It’s very important we strengthen the squad and a lot of work is being done behind the scenes to do that, but it’s equally important that we keep hold of the experienced players that have formed the core of our squad over recent seasons. For the record, and despite already receiving some interest, we have absolutely no intention to sell any of our best players. I met with captain Dean Lewington and vice-captain Darren Potter recently – we had a fantastic chat and I look forward to them leading a refreshed and ambitious team on the field next season.
Training ground...
I’m pleased we’ve now submitted our screening application – this is the first stage on the road to a full planning application, which we hope to submit in October. By taking on board comments over recent months, we believe we are in position to make the best possible application. It’s a long process and it’s one we are committed to. If and when we are given the go-ahead, work will commence immediately so the first team, academy and community can begin to enjoy the pitches and facilities they both need and deserve.
There’s no hiding from the fact it was a hugely-disappointing campaign. In hindsight, we would have done many things differently but we all learnt a lot, which will stand us in good stead for next season. I would be more concerned if we were looking back at the season without understanding what went wrong, but we know the mistakes we made and the improvements we need to make, which means I can be excited and optimistic for the season ahead.
Next season...
With the play-offs now complete, there are definitely some exciting games to look forward to next season. There are already a number of big teams in League One such as Sheffield United, Bradford City, Coventry City and Millwall. We will renew our battle with Peterborough United and also take on local sides Northampton Town and Oxford United, who both had fantastic seasons and were deservedly promoted. And, of course, the eyes of the footballing world will be on us as we meet AFC Wimbledon in the league for the first time.
Karl Robinson...
There has once again been speculation surrounding Karl’s future but I’ve seen first-hand how hard he is working to assemble the best possible squad for next season. Karl and I are in regular contact and my relationship with him, as it is with all the first-team staff, is as strong as ever. Everyone is on the same page and working well together.
Players...
It’s very important we strengthen the squad and a lot of work is being done behind the scenes to do that, but it’s equally important that we keep hold of the experienced players that have formed the core of our squad over recent seasons. For the record, and despite already receiving some interest, we have absolutely no intention to sell any of our best players. I met with captain Dean Lewington and vice-captain Darren Potter recently – we had a fantastic chat and I look forward to them leading a refreshed and ambitious team on the field next season.
Training ground...
I’m pleased we’ve now submitted our screening application – this is the first stage on the road to a full planning application, which we hope to submit in October. By taking on board comments over recent months, we believe we are in position to make the best possible application. It’s a long process and it’s one we are committed to. If and when we are given the go-ahead, work will commence immediately so the first team, academy and community can begin to enjoy the pitches and facilities they both need and deserve.
