Russell Martin heaped praise on striker Rhys Healey after his number 10 came up trumps again with the match-winning goal in Saturday’s victory over Bolton Wanderers.
Healey raced onto Alex Gilbey’s through pass 68 minutes into the Sky Bet League One clash with the Trotters, before coolly lifting a shot over the goalkeeper and into the net for his 11th goal of the campaign.
It’s the fifth straight game in which Healey has found the net. The 25-year-old is now directly responsible for 15 points gained this term courtesy of four match-winners and three levellers.
“I can't speak highly enough of him,” Martin said in his post-match press conference, after the 1-0 win at Stadium MK.
“He was disappointed with his performance in the first half and then second half he came alive and did a lot more for us. He could have half a hat-trick!
“His approach to things has been brilliant. He has a smile on his face now and he applies himself well.
“He's an important player for us and he's a top, top player at this level. Hopefully he'll keep improving.”
Healey wasn’t the only one to receive praise from the manager following the victory, with Martin also reserving praise for right-back Regan Poole, who shone again in his second straight start.
“He was excellent again,” Martin commented.
“It wasn't an easy decision [to start him] because Callum [Brittain] has been one of our top performers, but it sends a message to the rest of the team – if you're training brilliantly every day, supporting your team-mates, you're happy when we win, you're around the lads and your attitude is spot on, you will get your chance.
“Callum reacted to the news brilliantly. He's disappointed, of course, but his attitude is never in question. He now has to wait for his opportunity again and, when he gets his chance, I know he'll take it.”
There was also a comment for Carlton Morris, who played another important role up front for the Dons.
“In the second half, he was brilliant,” Martin added.
“Everyone around him will tell you how important he is. He takes so much for them, physically, and he creates so much room for everyone. Hopefully he keeps improving.”
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MK Dons are back in Sky Bet League One action this Tuesday night when they travel to Fratton Park to take on Portsmouth.
Tickets, which must be bought in advance of the game from MK Dons, are priced at £24 adults, £18 seniors, £16 young adults and £7 juniors.
Official Away travel is available for this fixture, with coach spaces priced at £19 Season Ticket holders/members and £20 all other supporters. Coaches will depart Stadium MK at 3pm.
To book tickets/travel click HERE, visit the Box Office at Stadium MK or call 0333 200 5343. Tickets will be available from the Club until midday on Tuesday.
Can't make the game? Supporters will be able to watch this match live on iFollow MK Dons for just £10 - click HERE to purchase a Video Match Pass!
