Collins Bounces Back as MK Dons Near Promotion

After dropping down a division to join MK Dons from Bolton, Aaron Collins was expected to excel in Sky Bet League Two. Having been named Wanderers' Player of the Year in 2024/25 with 19 goals and five assists in 55 games, he arrived at the Dons as their club-record signing. However, his debut was marred by a shoulder injury that kept him out for six to eight weeks. Collins recalls, 'I broke my shoulder in the first game of the season, which was frustrating, especially since it shouldn't have been a penalty.' He played on, thinking it was just a minor issue, but an x-ray confirmed the break. This injury was a significant setback, as Collins was eager to make a massive impact in the new season. Upon his return as a substitute in a 1-1 draw against Chesterfield, Collins scored in a 5-1 Vertu Trophy defeat to West Ham's U21s. However, his comeback was short-lived, as he pulled his hamstring in a training session and was sidelined for another two months. The mental toll of these injuries was significant, as Collins had never experienced such a prolonged period on the sidelines. 'It was mentally draining, but I tried to put myself in other people's shoes who had been through similar situations,' he says. 'I realized that everything happens for a reason, and this was an opportunity for me to reflect and grow.' Collins' first league start since the opening day came against Harrogate, where he scored a double in a 4-0 win. This marked a turning point, as he began to find his form and make a significant impact on the team. By mid-February, he had been fit and available for three months, but injuries struck again when he and teammate Callum Paterson suffered ankle ligament injuries. Initially expected to undergo surgery, Collins was relieved to only miss two games and worked hard to recover. 'It was a crucial time with 12 or 13 games to go, and I needed to make sure I could get back as quickly as possible,' he says. 'I've had to step up and fill in for Patto, who was on fire before his injury.' With two games left to play, MK Dons are on the cusp of promotion. Collins, who was promoted from this division with Bristol Rovers in 2021/22, is eager to experience that feeling again. 'There's no better feeling than promotion, and being able to be involved in 50% of the season and play my part is a feeling you cherish forever,' he says. Collins is hopeful that the team can maintain their form and secure promotion. 'We've come into form at the right time, and we're going into the last games with massive confidence,' he adds. Despite the drama of this season, Collins is determined to make the most of the opportunity and help his team achieve their goal.