Robbie Neilson has spoken of his delight at the application of his MK Dons squad during pre-season.
Neilson’s men completed their eight-game schedule with an impressive showing in a 0-0 draw with Premier League Leicester City at Stadium MK on Friday night.
He told iFollow MK Dons: “It has been good in that the lads have worked hard, we haven't had many injuries and the players have tactically done what we want them to do, but the proof will be in the pudding. There's no point talking about it, until we can walk the walk.
“We have gradually built through the pre-season to try and get to the first game. The fitness levels are improving. It'll be four or five games into the season when the fitness levels get to their maximum so we still have a lot of work to do.
“There were some aspects of the game where we did really well, there are areas we need to improve as well but, as I said to the players, it doesn't mean anything. It won't have any bearing on how we do in the league. It's now all about Saturday against Wigan.”
That clash with the Latics takes place at Stadium MK (kick-off 3pm) and the 37-year-old says everyone can’t wait for the big kick-off.
He said: “It has been a long time since we've played a competitive game and the boys are desperate to do it.
“If I had it my way, we'd just come in and play competitively from the start and get going. If we can do a lot of what we did (against Leicester) then we're going to have a good season.
“The way we brought the games in and the way we've increased the levels of the teams we've been playing has helped us.”
Neilson concluded by offering his thoughts on the performance of latest recruit Aaron Tshibola, who made his debut in the friendly with the Foxes.
He said: “I was really pleased with him - he showed the class he has. The way he dealt with the ball, the way he moved forwards - he brought everything that we wanted from him. It's important for him to continue to do that.”
Don't miss the Dons' 2017/18 curtain raiser against Wigan Athletic on Saturday - tickets from £22 adults, £17 over-65s/under-21s and £7 under-18s, while under-12s go FREE. Click here to book!
