George Williams and Paul Downing have become the newest additions to the MK Dons team for their 2016/17 campaign. Williams, a defender who can operate in both full back positions, signed today on a free from Barnsley. Meanwhile, Downing, a centre back, joined from fellow League One side Walsall, also on a free.
Williams and Downing Add to MK Dons Summer Recruitment
Williams previously played for MK Dons as an apprentice, but was let go at the end of his scholarship period. Upon re-signing him, Dons manager Karl Robinson said while speaking to mkdons.com, “I released him four years ago and I’ll never forget it because he was really on the borderline. He listened to our advice, went away and did all the right things and now he’s back here – it’s almost a full circle for him.” After previously leaving Stadium MK, Williams went to non-league where he played for Loughborough University and Worcester City.
Williams was part of the Worcester squad that went on the memorable FA Cup run of 2014-15, defeating Coventry City in the first round and taking Scunthorpe United to a replay, extra time, and a penalty shoot-out where they eventually lost.
This cup run enabled him to be picked up by Barnsley, who he joined in December 2014. Here he made 27 appearances for The Tykes, including 14 on loan at Barrow.
Being able to operate on both sides of the defence, it seems he could provide some cover for the ageing Dean Lewington. The veteran left-back is often subject to criticism, so some fresh blood in that position could be a sign of good things to come for some fans. If he were to also operate on the right side, it could also mean the departure of Lee Hodson. The Northern Ireland international spent the second half of last season on loan at Kilmarnock, before jetting off to Euro 2016. He could even end up being a replacement for George Baldock, who has attracted interest from as high up as the Premier League, with Swansea reportedly the front-runners to gain his signature.
Another addition to the squad was made yesterday. Paul Downing, formerly of Walsall, joins on a free transfer after not signing a new contract in the Midlands. The 24 year-old started his career with West Bromwich Albion, but didn’t make a professional appearance. He has spent time on loan at Hereford, Rotherham, Shrewsbury and Barnet, where he had most of his success. In 2012 though, he signed for Walsall and made his debut in the 2-2 draw with Brentford.
Downing went on to make 136 appearances for the Saddlers, finding the net five times in that period.
Speaking to mkdons.com, Karl Robinson said of the signing “I’ve always liked Paul as a player. I’m delighted to be able to bring him to Stadium MK and I’m sure he will fit into this young, fresh and vibrant group very well. He’s been at the heart of Walsall’s recent success – they have always been a difficult opponent for us and Paul has played a big role in that.”
The Dons also made one previous acquisition this summer by bringing in former Millwall midfielder Ed Upson, also on a free transfer.
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