Paul Warne has confirmed he will select the best goalkeeper for Milton Keynes Dons, creating direct competition between new signing Will Dennis and last season's standout Craig MacGillivray. The head coach's comments come as the Dons prepare for their next League One fixture against Wigan Athletic this week.
Who is competing for the goalkeeper spot?
The battle for the number one shirt is between two experienced players. Will Dennis, a 26-year-old who signed from Bournemouth on an undisclosed fee this week, spent a decade as an understudy at Dean Court with loan spells at Kilmarnock and Leyton Orient. He faces Craig MacGillivray, the Scottish keeper who had a brilliant season last year, playing a key role in the club's promotion from League Two. MacGillivray has carried that form into the new campaign, delivering an excellent display in the recent draw against Huddersfield Town.
What did Paul Warne say about selection?
Warne was clear about his selection policy. "I’ll pick whoever I think is the best keeper," the MK Dons manager stated. He explained that while he signs players with the intention for them to play, new arrivals usually need a period of adjustment before breaking into the team. The head coach is looking to improve every department of the squad as they adapt to life back in League One, where they currently sit 14th with two points from two draws. Their goal difference stands at zero after scoring three and conceding three.
How does the squad look before the deadline?
With the transfer deadline set for next Tuesday at 11pm, Warne anticipates further movement. He is keen to bring in one or two more new faces but also expects to lose a similar number of players, describing potential departures as 'natural erosion'. Warne has told players they are running out of time to leave the club if they wish to seek opportunities elsewhere. Once the window closes, his focus will be entirely on the group that remains. "Come next Wednesday, you’re mine!" he told the squad, expressing his backing for the players who stay.
What is the context for MK Dons' season?
The goalkeeper decision comes at an important early stage of the League One season. Milton Keynes Dons have taken two points from their opening two matches, leaving them four points behind early leaders Bradford City. Their next challenge is an away trip to face Wigan Athletic, who currently occupy 24th place in the table. The team's early form, detailed on our standings page, shows a solid defensive foundation that both keepers will aim to strengthen. Supporters can track the team's progress and upcoming matches, including the Wigan clash, on our fixtures schedule.
Warne's commitment to picking on merit ensures both Dennis and MacGillivray will be pushing each other in training. This internal competition is designed to elevate the team's overall performance as they look to climb the table from their current mid-table position. The manager's squad planning, which fans can follow via the official squad list, will be finalized after Tuesday's deadline, setting the group for the autumn fixtures.
