Paul Tisdale believes Sam Nombe is a fine example of why it’s important for young players to show patience in their pursuit of first-team football.
Nombe signed professional terms with the Dons back in May 2017 but has only featured 14 times for the first-team since then.
However, early in the second half of Tuesday’s Carabao Cup tie with Southend United, the striker was handed an appearance off the bench by Tisdale and he rewarded the manager’s faith by firing home his first senior goal to round-off an impressive 4-1 away victory.
“I've had a lot of experience in developing young players and giving them the chance and, a lot of the time, it is not until the third or fourth year when they suddenly arise,” Tisdale said in his pre-match press conference ahead of this weekend’s trip to Accrington Stanley.
“It's not just about talent or their skill, but becoming selectable. There are the odd special talents that burst through and are selectable right away but often that takes time.
“Sam still has a lot to do but he's patient, he's motivated and he brings some specific skills to the table. He is learning how to become selectable.”
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MK Dons are back in action this Saturday afternoon when they take on Accrington Stanley at the Wham Stadium.
Tickets are available in standing or seated areas priced at £20 adults, £15 seniors/students, £10 under-18s and £5 under-12s.
Official Away Travel is available for this fixture, with coach spaces priced at £24 Season Ticket holders/members and £25 all other supporters. Coaches will depart Stadium MK at 9am.
To book tickets/travel click HERE, visit the Box Office at Stadium MK or call 0333 200 5343. Tickets will be available to buy up until 5pm on Friday.
