Russell Martin reserved individual praise for several of his stars from Tuesday’s victory over Rochdale.
Martin’s Dons came from behind at Stadium MK to beat Rochdale 2-1 and move six points clear of the bottom three in Sky Bet League One.
There were impressive performances all over the pitch but the Dons boss was keen to offer his plaudits to several stand-outs, including scorer of the equaliser, Carlton Morris, who was named the Man of the Match by match sponsors TSYS Payment Solutions.
“Carlton was the best player on the pitch,” Martin commented. “Not just because of his performance, but also because he was a leader out there. He really set the tone for us in the second half.”
Morris grabbed the equaliser four minutes into the second half and that set up Rhys Healey to win the match late on with his stoppage-time penalty. Martin commented on the character shown by his number 10 to step up late on and win the match.
“He wasn't a designated taker, so for him to do that and for the lads to trust him shows huge respect.
“He knows it wasn't his best game, but you cannot question his desire to win so credit to him. He missed a big chance just before but fair play, he won the penalty and then stepped up to take it.”
Healey and Morris weren’t the only forwards to garner praise, with Sam Nombe also drawing positive comments for his impact off the bench.
“I wanted a reaction from Sam. He was frustrated not to start and I get that, so when he plays, he has to make the most of the time he gets on the pitch and make sure he's in the frame for the next game - he did that and was superb.”
Martin’s second change of the evening, Ben Gladwin, also provided a spark in the latter stages, completing three key passes with just 17 touches of the ball.
“Ben was excellent when he came on,” said his manager. “His understanding and feel for the ball, his passes and knowing where his team-mates are – it’s second to none.
He's put two people on goal from 40, 50 yard passes along the floor which not many people at this level can do. He's certainly showing what he's about.
“I really believe in Ben. We need to get him fitter and if we can keep him fit, and manage him, he will show his real quality.”