Graham Alexander believes last week’s pre-season training camp in Germany was a ‘brilliant exercise’ for his MK Dons squad.
The Dons spent Tuesday through Saturday at a training base in Hannover last week as they continued their preparations for the 2023/24 campaign.
Days often began with a 6.30am run and also included two on-pitch sessions as well as work in the gym and pool. There was also a behind-closed-doors training match against 2. Bundesliga opposition on Friday evening.
Alexander, reflecting on the week, told iFollow MK Dons that he has seen growth and improvement from his squad, both on and off the pitch, during their time in Germany.
“It has been a brilliant exercise for us,” the Head Coach said. “It has been incredibly valuable to see a different side of the players.
“We've been doing four or five sessions a day and everyone has completed them. We've worked the players incredibly hard and we’ve seen progress in the messages we've given them.
“We've tested them physically and mentally because we need to see which characters and personalities are there and who wants to dig in and help their team-mates. You need to know these things because the season will bring about many challenges.
“We're all fighting for the same thing. I believe strongly that we all have to support each other through tough times and when we're winning as well. It's about everyone invested in MK Dons, and when we do something, we all do it together.
“Hopefully that bond grows stronger and stronger each week and we can become that winning team we all want to be.”
Conor Grant, Matthew Dennis and Zak Jules didn’t make the trip to Germany due to injury and personal reasons but their absence provided Alexander with a chance to hand opportunities to Academy players such as Callum Tripp and Phoenix Scholtz.
“It's a shame we had to leave behind those three but we knew they weren't able to take part in training - if they had been, we'd have brought them out.
“Instead, we've had a couple of the academy lads with us and I think they've seen it as a brilliant experience. For them to see how the first-team works, and the demands put on the players, is brilliant.
“The senior players have been really impressed with them as well. There are multiple positives to have come from this trip.”
Alexander, who discussed a number of topics in his 15-minute interview with iFollow MK Dons, also provided a transfer update, confirming that the Club are still looking to add to the squad.
“We're talking to representatives of players who we'd like to bring in where I think we can improve or add competition. There will be a couple of additions - we need that and we have to improve the group.
“We want the right players for the group, and that narrows down who we want to attempt to sign. Hopefully we'll have more news in the coming weeks.”
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Graham Alexander takes charge of MK Dons at Stadium MK for the first time this week when his side face Coventry City and Northampton Town in pre-season friendlies.
Tickets for both matches are on sale now from the Box Office and online, with discounts available for Season Ticket holders if bought in advance.
Season Ticket holders can purchase tickets at a rate of £10 adults, £8 over-65s, £8 under-25s, £5 under-21s and £1 under-14s while general sale tickets are priced at £12 adults, £10 over-65s, £10 under-25s, £6 under-21s and £1 under-14s.
To book tickets CLICK HERE, visit the Box Office at Stadium MK or call 01908 622933. Tickets will be available to buy right up until kick-off.
