MK Dons Scholar Phoenix Scholtz shared his thoughts following his first pre-season campaign with the senior squad.
Amounting three appearances within the friendly fixtures, as well as training with the first team throughout the pre-season programme, Phoenix Scholtz was questioned about his fresh experience within the first team set-up.
The young full-back made his first senior appearance against Barnet at The Hive, a clash which resulted in a 1-1 draw. Scholtz entered the field of play with 30 minutes remaining, and the defender supported the team in the closing stages of the game.
“I thought I played fairly well” Phoenix said when he reflected on that day, the second year Scholar added “I went into the changing room after the game, and when I left the gaffer (Graham Alexander) said that he wanted to take me to Germany with the team.
“I was a bit shocked. But I was also really proud of myself and happy to have the opportunity too. I thought, this is my time to go and show them what I can do.” The defender explained.
Scholtz would amount a further 20 minutes in his legs during the Germany pre-season training camp, when MK Dons faced 2. Bundesliga side VfL Osnabrück in a friendly fixture on the final day.
The young Don was then called upon in the final stages of the last friendly hosted at Stadium MK against Northampton Town.
When questioned about the experience gained throughout the pre-season campaign, Scholtz replied “It has been really good! I thought the lads would be a lot firmer, but they’ve all really took me under their wing. Alongside all the other young boys too.
“The coaching staff have also been really supportive, whenever I step onto the pitch or go into training, I know that they have full faith in me. I’m really enjoying it - I feel like I’m a part of the group, and I’m picking up a lot of first team habits which is good.”
The full-back continued his insight into the opportunity he endured “Since we were young this is all we dreamed about, playing in front of fans and family in big stadiums like Stadium MK.
“But that wouldn’t be possible without putting in the hard work behind the scenes too. All the little things that we do off the pitch will add up to what happens on the pitch. If you slack off the pitch, then you’ll slack on the pitch.”
