MK Dons’ promotion hopes have been hit with a big setback, following confirmation that playmaker Nathaniel Mendez-Laing will need to undergo surgery, ruling him out for the foreseeable future.
The experienced winger has been a crucial part of Paul Warne’s side so far this season as they continue their quest towards a return to League One.
However, those hopes have been dealt a big blow going into the busy festive period.
MK Dons star set for extended sideline stint
As confirmed via the players personal instagram profile, Nathaniel Mendez-Laing will need to undergo surgery, which will rule him out for an extended period of time.
The 33-year-old was substituted after just 22 minutes during MK Dons’ recent League Two fixture against Cambridge United, which ended in a 1-1 draw.
Confirming the news on a recent post, Mendez-Laing stated…
’Devastated with the news of needing to have surgery, I’ll be working tirelessly to get back fit and helping my team. Thank you for all the messages of support. Let the journey begin. Gods plan.’
How important has he been so far this season?
Mendez-Laing’s recent arrival at MK Dons was met with a huge shock due to his impressive two-year stint with Championship side Derby County, including the 2024/25 season where he contributed to seven goals.
Since joining the club, the 33-year-old has wasted no time in proving why signing him was a major success for Paul Warne and his side.
Across all competitions, Mendez-Laing has registered 18 appearances for MK Dons and contributed to nine goals, working out to be a goal contribution every other game.
This includes his most recent brace against Notts County earlier this month in a 3-2 defeat.
How can MK Dons adapt without him?
Upon sustaining his injury on Saturday, Mendez-Laing was replaced by Welshman Aaron Collins, but he struggled to get himself into the game and managed just one shot on target from three attempts.
Despite being a natural winger, Mendez-Laing has featured more as a striker for MK Dons this season and thus has a handful of potential replacements whilst he’s out injured.
Collins himself is the expected replacement, but the likes of Jonathan Leko and potentially Dan Crowley could step up and try to force their way into a regular starter in the imminent future.
Similarly, the January transfer window is also just around the corner and with the club sat fifth in League Two currently, there is every chance that the club may look to bring in a fresh face to help get themselves over the promotion line.
