Russell Martin has said he is excited about his first managerial role at MK Dons.
The League One acted fast to replace Paul Tisdale by turning to their 33-year-old defender.
Martin, who is a vastly experienced player having played for the likes of Peterborough United, Norwich City and Rangers in the past, has a tough job on his hands with the Dons.
They were promoted from League Two last season under Tisdale but have struggled in the third tier this term, winning just four games out of 16.
Martin has told their official club website: “I’m excited and proud to have been given this opportunity to become manager of MK Dons. 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. We will always remember celebrating that special moment at the end of last season.”
He added: “I must also thank Pete Winkelman and the board for placing their trust in me. I accept their challenge to improve on the recent results and the current league position, and I will give everything I’ve got to repay their faith.”
“We’ve got work to do and we will need everyone working as one in order to achieve what we want to achieve – players, staff and fans included. We will turn this around together.”
His first game at the helm is this weekend in the FA Cup against Port Vale at home.