Former Walsall man Russell Martin in hot-seat at MK Dons

Martin joined the Saddlers in October 2018 but left three months later saying he was struggling with the commute from his family home in Brighton. Three days after his departure, he joined MK Dons in a playing capacity.

And he has now been appointed the club’s manager following the departure of Paul Tisdale.

The Dons currently sit in the relegation zone in League One, having lost eight of their last nine games.

“I’m excited and proud to have been given this opportunity,” Martin said.

“Football management is something that I’ve been preparing for for a long time, and this is an opportunity I’m ready to take on.

“I would like to thank Paul Tisdale for bringing me to the football club and for his hard work during my time here.”

MK Dons chairman Pete Winckelman added: “Ever since Russell joined the club, we recognised his potential to one day become a manager.

“It’s certainly happening faster than we expected but I’m excited to give Russell the chance and show us all what we can do.”