Dean Lewington: Record-breaking MK Dons captain reflects on 13 years at the club

Dean Lewington has been with MK Dons for 13 seasons now. Credit: ITV News Anglia

Loyalty is a commodity that is arguably lacking in modern day football, but MK Dons captain Dean Lewington is living proof that it does still exist.

The 33-year-old has spent the last 13 years of his career at the club after making the controversial decision to move to Milton Keynes following the collapse of the old Wimbledon in 2004.

During that time, he's represented the Dons on 646 occasions - a figure that means he now holds the record for the most appearances made for one club by any player in the country after John Terry's decision to leave Chelsea this summer.

It's an achievement Lewington says he's proud of, and although he's had offers to leave in the past, he insists has no regrets.

"It's always a great honour to play here," Lewington told ITV News Anglia.

"We've got a good fanbase and it's improving and getting better. We've had some really good times here as well so it's always been a pleasure to play here."

Dean Lewington's MK Dons career in numbers

The haircuts may have changed through the years, but Lewington has always remained a Don. Credit: PA
  • MK Dons appearances: 646

  • MK Dons goals: 23

  • Years at the club so far: 13

  • Promotions: 2

  • Relegations: 2

Lewington recently signed a new contract to extend his stay by a further two years - much to the delight of the club's fans who have been known to wear orange at games in honour of his ginger hair colour.

On the pitch, he's had plenty of success too, having experienced two promotions, as well as leading his team to a famous 4-0 win over Manchester United at Stadium MK in the League Cup in 2014.

Will Grigg scored twice against Manchester United in the famous 4-0 win in 2014. Credit: PA

"I just couldn't believe that it was happening to us or that they wouldn't just click into gear and go and score three of four goals," he said.

"We were just waiting for them to click but it just never happened.

"In the end, it was a fantastic night. The stadium was full for the first time and Griggy (Will Grigg) scored a goal with his chest which was outrageous. It was fantastic game."

Lewington has been impressed with Robbie Neilson's impact. Credit: PA

However, for all the highs, inevitably there have been some lows too - most notably relegation from The Championship in 2016.

Many expected the club to challenge for an immediate return last season, but a promotion charge never materialised.

Lewington is hopeful though that under the stewardship of manager Robbie Neilson, the Dons can get back to the second tier, and he admits that even though he's now in his advanced years, he's still as keen as ever to learn.

Lewington is a legendary figure at MK Dons. Credit: PA

"We've got almost like a new generation that have come in now, a new MK," he said.

"It will just take a bit of time to bed in and get playing that way but it's an enjoyable way of playing and I enjoy working with him (Neilson).

"He's very detailed in what he does and I'm just trying to take what I can off him and try and learn what he's trying to get across.

"There's always something that they (the coaches) can show you, so you always try and constantly learn. You're never too old to stop."