Jack Davies has endured a roller-coaster past 12 months but saw his hard-work and graft rewarded earlier this week when he put pen to paper on his first professional deal.
The 17-year-old midfielder, who has been with the Club since the age of 10, spent last summer training with the first-team squad before a serious injury saw him ruled out of action for the majority of the 2019/20 campaign.
Working throughout the year to return to full fitness, Davies is back in the first-team fold and is now on professional terms with his hometown club.
“I’m buzzing,” he said in his exclusive interview with iFollow MK Dons. “It’s what I’ve been striving for, practically all of my life.
“It’s been a tough year and a roller-coaster year. I’d never had any type of injury before – not even a muscle injury – so to get such a serious one, was a real shock. From then, I’ve got my head down and worked hard to get back stronger than ever.
“The hard work doesn’t stop and I’ve got to keep going and showing what I can do. As a young player, I don’t want to set my goals too high or too low.
“I’ve got a contract, yes, but it’s just the start for the me – the start of what I hope will be a long and successful career.”
Davies helps make up an experienced MK Dons backline which includes senior figures in Dean Lewington and Richard Keogh. The young Dons also has manager Russell Martin to look up to, as he aims to develops his game at Stadium MK.
“When I first came into training last season, and Russ was still playing, he was always one to put his arms and around me and be there for me. He’s a great role model and he’s been the same as the manager.
“All through my rehab he was checking up on me. Showing that faith and support, is massive for me.
“For any young lad going into the first-team environment, you need those players who will guide you. To have the support of a club captain and a legend in Dean Lewington is huge.
"Baily, as well, from the moment I’ve started training with the first-team, we’ve got on and he’s looked after me. I’m really grateful for that support.”
