WHO ARE YA? MK Dons (The Franchise)

Vital Swindon Town takes a look at MK Dons heading into our clash at the Stadium:MK on Saturday.

Many would say this “club” are a pimple on the backside of English Football however they are in the league whether they should be or not so we preview one of the most controversial clubs in the country.

History wise there is nothing to really write as the “club” has no history apart from winning the Johnstone`s Paint Trophy and winning promotion from League last season.

Since Pete Winkleman bought a place in the Football League by moving Wimbledon to Milton Keynes and stuck 2 fingers up to the club`s fans in Wimbledon, the “club” has moved into the eye pleasing Stadium:MK. All the seats in the ground are padded however the upper tier has yet to be completed. Originally the “club” played in the ridiculous looking National Hockey Stadium near Milton Keynes Central rail station.

Prior to the 2005/06 season Pete Winkleman changed the clubs colours from yellow and blue to black, red and white. Winkleman would also change the name of the team to MK Dons from Wimbledon despite promising not to change the name or colours without fans consultation.

AFC Wimbledon fans and football fans altogether boycotted games or spending money at Milton Keynes Dons matches in protest to football franchising.

Last season MK Dons handed the Wimbledon`s club history back to the Merton Council. Due to this WISA (Wimbledon Independent Supporters Association) ended their call for clubs to boycott having games at MK and telling fans to miss matches and not spend any money at MK Dons matches.

With this behind them, The Franchise went on to win League 2 under the guidance of current Blackburn manager Paul Ince who ditched the “club” at the first opportunity.