Russell Martin believes now is the right time to move into management and believes he is starting his journey at the perfect club.
Martin was appointed First-Team Manager of MK Dons on Sunday morning, following the departure of Paul Tisdale the previous evening.
It’s the former Scotland international’s first managerial role after a playing career which has seen him tally over 580 appearances to date, and he is confident this move from the pitch to the dugout has come at right time.
“I wanted it to happen at some point,” Martin said in his exclusive interview with iFollow MK Dons – his first since taking over as manager.
“As an older player, you think of those things anyway. I've had a couple of opportunities to take jobs at lower levels but this one felt right. It is perfect timing for me.
“Everyone has to start somewhere. Most managers who are available at this stage are available for a reason and I haven't got any of that football baggage.
“I've been preparing for it for a long time in terms of courses, learning from mentors in the game and speaking about ideas.”
He continued: “It has been a busy three days. There is a lot to sort out, organise and get done and the situation is not great, in terms of our league position, but I feel I'm walking into something that could be really good.
“I'm coming in with a belief in myself and the people in the building that we've got more than enough to improve the situation.
“This is a brilliant football club with brilliant people, and I've got some ideas of how to get us out of this situation. Hopefully, with some real positivity we can do that, and look onwards and upwards.”
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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.
