Russell Martin has paid tribute to Dean Lewington on the eve of the captain’s 800th appearance in an MK Dons shirt.
Lewington is set to reach another career milestone this Saturday against Burton Albion, at the end of a week in which he signed a new deal to extend his affiliation with the Dons into an 18th season.
“We’ve run out of superlatives to describe him,” Martin said in his pre-match press conference. “He deserves every single bit of recognition he gets because what he’s done cannot be understated – you will never see it again.
“He’s been one of our top performers this season. The fact he’s still playing such an important role at this stage is a testament to how hard he’s working - for him to play pretty much every game and train every day, is just phenomenal.
“He’s massive for what we do here. He gives us a lot of feedback and asks a lot of questions and he challenges the younger players.
“We need to decide how to celebrate him one day, and how we can look after him once his playing days are done. I hope he’s got a couple of years left, but at some point he deserves something because it is simply incredible.”
The Dons skipper, and his manager, will no doubt want to celebrate the milestone with a victory at the Pirelli Stadium, against a Burton side who are in terrific form under new boss Jimmy Floyd Hasselbaink.
“What Jimmy has done there is incredible,” Martin said. “People were writing them off and he’s changed everything - aside from Man City, they are probably the most in form team in the country.
“They play with so much energy and enthusiasm - they clearly all buy into what the manager wants and enjoy doing it.
“It’s a massive test for us, but the players are up for the challenge and looking forward to a good game of football.”
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Supporters can watch Saturday's Sky Bet League One clash with Burton Albion LIVE on iFollow MK Dons.
Due to the Government’s Covid-19 restrictions, the game will take place behind-closed-doors but MK Dons fans will still be able to watch the action courtesy of iFollow MK Dons.
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.
