Russell Martin wants to see his MK Dons side heading in the direction right away, but knows the overall improvement of the team will be a gradual process.
Martin was appointed manager on Sunday and takes the reins with the Dons lying 21st in the Sky Bet League One table without a win in their last nine matches – a run which has seen them collect just a single point.
The 33-year-old is aware of the challenge that he faces in his first managerial job but is confident in his and the team’s ability to turn things around.
“It has been a difficult time for us as players at the club,” Martin acknowledged in his first interview with iFollow MK Dons.
“Obviously the club has decided to make a change and I'm extremely delighted that the club has chosen me to take charge and get us out of this situation. I believe I will get us out of this situation, I need everyone on board and behind me.
“I was made aware by the chairman that he was going to make a change on Saturday night and he said he wanted me to take it. I told him I wanted to do it straight away, and we immediately started talking about how to improve things around the place an improve performances.
“I want us to play attractive football, of course, but that won't happen overnight. There are a lot of things I want to work on off the ball too - I want us to be aggressive, pressing high up the pitch and hard working. It's up to us to put that out there on the training ground. There will be a few small tweaks this week that will help us function as a team.
“We've got some really good players, and it’s my job now to find a system and style that works for them, us and the fans – at the end of the day, it’s about giving the fans something to be positive about on a Saturday afternoon.”
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Watch Russell Martin's first match in charge of MK Dons this weekend as his side take on Port Vale at Stadium MK in the Emirates FA Cup First Round Proper.
Tickets are priced from £12 adults, £5 under-18s and £1 under-12s, with discounts for Season Ticket holders until 5pm on Friday.
Supporters can upgrade to seats in the East Centre for a £3 premium (£2 under-18s) while an upgrade to clubRed is just £6 more (£5 under-18s/£4 under-12s).
To book tickets click HERE, visit the Box Office at Stadium MK or call 0333 200 5343.
Tickets will be available to buy right up until kick-off from the Box Office. Tickets will go off sale online at 12pm. Tickets can also be bought from cash-only ticket booths around Stadium MK from 1pm.
