Russell Martin makes a contentious return to Stadium MK this Saturday as his Leicester City side face Milton Keynes Dons in a League One clash. The former Dons head coach's first visit since his abrupt 2021 departure to Swansea City is expected to be met with hostility from home supporters.
Martin was appointed by MK Dons chairman Pete Winkelman in November 2019, taking his first managerial role after retiring as a player. His tenure saw a significant turnaround in form in early 2021, with signings like Matt O'Riley and Harry Darling proving instrumental. The team finished the 2020/21 season strongly, recording the third-best second-half record in the division. You can view the squad list's composition on our squad page.
Why do MK Dons fans still resent Russell Martin?
The ill feeling stems from Martin's exit in July 2021, just days before the new season began. Swansea City made a public approach for him, and despite his public assurances of commitment, he left after a 5-0 League Cup defeat to Bournemouth. Captain Dean Lewington had to face the post-match press instead of Martin, confirming the move was happening. Fans felt betrayed by the timing and manner of his departure, with chants directed at him during that final game.
How has Martin's career progressed since leaving MK Dons?
After leaving Milton Keynes, Martin managed Swansea City before a brief stint at Rangers. He then took Southampton to the Premier League but suffered relegation. He joined Leicester City this summer after their drop from the Championship. His Foxes side, tipped as title favourites, have taken just one point from their opening two League One games this season. The full League One standings show the early-season picture.
What is the significance of this weekend's fixture?
This lunchtime kick-off marks Martin's first competitive match back at the stadium where he began his coaching career. The fixture is a key early test for both teams. For MK Dons, it's a chance to measure themselves against the pre-season favourites. For Martin, it's a return to a club where he won promotion as a player in 2019. The match is part of a busy schedule detailed on our fixtures list.
MK Dons will look to their current squad to get a result. The team's recent form and player statistics are available on our stats page. The final whistle on Saturday will close another chapter in a complicated relationship between a club and its former manager.
