MK Dons Chairman Pete Winkelman has paid tribute to Keith Andrews after the former Dons captain completed his dream move to the Premier League.

Andrews signed a three-year deal with Blackburn Rovers on Thursday, bringing to an end two highly-successful years with the Dons.

The Irish midfielder led the Club to both the League 2 title and Johnstone's Paint Trophy last season, in a campaign of personal triumph which saw him named League 2 Footballer of the Year.

His place in Dons history was confirmed with goals in both the Wembley final and the promotion-clinching victory at Stockport County.

And Pete, who shared a close relationship with Andrews, feels his achievements in Milton Keynes have earned him the chance to shine on the biggest stage.

He said: "Keith has been a fantastic servant for the Club over the last two years and we have enjoyed some unforgettable times together.

"Whilst there is an unavoidable sense of disappointment at losing our Club captain, we are also immensely proud that Keith will be stepping up to join some of the world's finest players in the Premier League.

"In an ideal world we would have dearly loved to have kept Keith here for many years to come, but the opportunity to play in the greatest league in the world was just too good for us to stand in his way.

"Every player dreams to play at the very highest level and this opportunity represents the pinnacle in any player's career.

"We wish him every success with Blackburn Rovers - success I feel sure he will achieve."