Ethan Laird feels MK Dons and Russell Martin will bring the best out of him as he states he’s loving his loan spell with the club.
Never seen without a broad smile upon his face, Ethan Laird has become an infectious personality around Stadium MK. The 19-year-old has also become an integral part on the pitch having started every Sky Bet League One fixture since his arrival.
Having mainly played Under-23s and Under-18s football prior to his arrival, Laird has seen a new side to the game that he feels can only benefit him. Martin’s side have kept over 60% possession in their last four fixtures with Laird noting the football the Dons play is one he loves being involved in.
“The way football is how it should be played – it's entertaining,” Laird told the local media. “Everyone wants to watch our games because of the way we play – that’s the way it should be.
“How can I not enjoy myself – I'm playing football! A few years ago, I wasn't playing due to injury. Now I'm in a proper team, with proper camaraderie, the chemistry is high, we're all fighting for each other - it's a really good place to be.
“That's why you see me enjoying myself, I know even if the worst has happened to me, someone will be there for me, and vice versa, I just love it here because it's what I've been doing for so many years, and my hobby has become my job. I have to keep smiling.
“I wasn't expecting a few things. Things like physicality took me by surprise, dealing with players a lot bigger and stronger than you, how they use their body.. I knew we play good football but not to this extent, I cannot say I've ever played in a team like it.
“The trust the manager has in us to be able to keep the ball in tough situations, switching the play, it's something I'm not used to, but it has given me a sense of composure on the ball. I'm loving every second of being here.”
The Manchester United loanee picked up his third assist of the season in last Saturday’s 2-1 win over Burton Albion. His header was turned towards goa by Warren O’Hora to secure all three points.
Laird, however, wants to contribute more in the final third adding a number of goals and assists to his game in the final stages of the season.
“I had a conversation with the staff here, I create a lot of chances, but the number of assists and the goals just haven't been as high as I’d like. That’s for me to work on and improve, creating more clear-cut chances and putting it on a plate when I can. You want to get as many assists and goals as possible to help the team.
“The staff believe in me and what I can do and provide. As I'm young, they can give me as much information as possible to help my career down the line. They recognise I'm young and there's still a lot to learn and they're helping me out with that."
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Supporters can watch Saturday's Sky Bet League One clash with Doncaster Rovers LIVE on iFollow MK Dons.
Season Ticket holders will be able to watch the match for FREE. You will simply need to log-in to your iFollow MK Dons to view the game - click HERE for full information!
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