Russell Martin wants his MK Dons side to show more bravery in the final third, just as they do elsewhere on the pitch.
Martin’s side take on Southampton Under-21s on Wednesday evening, looking to extend their four-match unbeaten run which has included wins over Wigan Athletic and Eastleigh as well as draws with AFC Wimbledon and Northampton Town.
The Dons have also kept three clean sheets during the unbeaten run and while pleased with his side’s resilience in front of goal, the boss wants them to start taking risks at the other end of the pitch, in a bid to turn more of their draws into victories.
“We’ve become really difficult to play against but we have to do more in the final third,” the manager said in his pre-match press conference ahead of Wednesday’s Papa John’s Trophy tie at Stadium MK.
“We’re four unbeaten now and it’s four clean sheets in seven. We started the season quite expansively and we conceded a lot of sloppy goals so we’ve made us a lot more solid. We have to tip the balance the other way now, without losing that solidity and strength that we’ve had in defence.
“In terms of the possession we have, it’s not slow - it’s really aggressive and it’s really dominant. We just have to make that dominance count and put the ball in the back of the net.
“We need to take more risks in the final third. We play with so much courage and composure all over the pitch but we need to add that to the final third. That needs work.”
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Supporters can watch Wednesday's Papa John's Trophy tie with Southampton Under-21s LIVE on iFollow MK Dons.
Russell Martin's men, who have already booked their place in the knockout stages of the competition, welcome the Saints to Stadium MK on Wednesday looking to secure top spot in Southern Group C. Kick-off is at 7pm.
Due to the Government’s Covid-19 restrictions, the tie will take place behind closed doors but fans will be able to watch the match courtesy of an iFollow MK Dons Video Match Pass.
With an iFollow MK Dons Video Match pass, you will be able to watch Martin's side in action on your laptop, computer, tablet or mobile device! Want to watch on your tablet or mobile device? Download the new EFL iFollow App and watch on the go, wherever you are!
To purchase a £10 Video Match Pass, click HERE and select Buy A Video Match Pass. Then simply log in to your iFollow MK Dons account and follow the instructions or register for an account, which can be done for free.
