Karl Robinson’s newest recruit Samir Carruthers revealed his excitement after joining MK Dons on a permanent basis.
“It’s exciting because it’s what I wanted,” Samir told MK Dons Player. “I know the Club from before so I’m just happy to be here and I can’t wait to get going again.
“I know the manager, the staff and the players and I know how the team plays football. It was almost like coming home for me. When I came here the first time I loved it and so knowing I’m going to be here for another three years is brilliant and I can’t wait to get going.”
The former Republic of Ireland Under-21 international’s time with the Dons in 2013/14 was brought to a premature end after he suffered damage to his posterior cruciate ligament in the FA Cup with Budweiser replay with Wigan Athletic.
The injury kept Carruthers out for the remainder of the season but the midfielder, who is currently working his way back from a separate thigh issue, insists he has only become stronger as a result of his time on the sidelines.
“I did my cruciate which at the time was bad news but I got to learn things about my body that I didn’t know before, like dieting and stretching. You learn so much about the other side of football and realise it’s not just kicking a ball about.
“I’ve come back fine, my knee's healthy and I just need to get back fit. The calf injury will probably keep me out to two to four weeks and then I need to get myself fit and get back into the team.
“Karl’s got to pick me at the end of the day and there are other players here as well so I’ve got to fight for my place.”
Although supporters will have to remain patient before they can see Carruthers back in a Dons shirt, they can be safe in the knowledge that he will be playing his football at stadiummk until June 2017 although the Islington-born playmaker insists his focus is solely on this coming season.
He added: “At the moment I’m just focusing on this season and I’m not looking ahead to what will happen in three years time. This season is my main priority.
“I just hope I can get (the fans) cheering and excited, like the last time I was here. I’ll keep trying to score and create goals but winning is the most important thing in football and I want to help the team do that.”