After joining MK Dons from Bolton, Aaron Collins was expected to excel in Sky Bet League Two, given his impressive performance in the 2024/25 season, where he scored 19 goals and had five assists in 55 games. However, his debut was marred by an injury, which was later diagnosed as a broken shoulder, forcing him out for six to eight weeks.
Collins recounts, 'I played on, thinking I'd just jarred it, but an x-ray confirmed the break.' He expressed frustration at the timing, having been eager to start the new season. Upon his return, Collins suffered another setback, pulling his hamstring in a training session, which kept him out for two months.
He notes, 'It was mentally draining, having never experienced an injury that kept me out for more than a game or two.' However, Collins used the time to reflect and put himself in the shoes of others who had gone through similar experiences. He marked his first league start since the opening day with a double in a 4-0 win against Harrogate. By mid-February, Collins had been fit for three months, but he suffered another ankle ligament injury.
Initially, surgery was expected, but he only missed two games. Collins says, 'I've worked hard to keep the swelling and pain away, and it's feeling good. Now, I'm focused on making up for the time I missed.' With MK Dons on the cusp of promotion, Collins is determined to play a key role. Having experienced promotion with Bristol Rovers in 2021/22, he knows the feeling and is eager to cherish it again.
'I've spent maybe 50 per cent of this season out injured, but being involved in the other 50 per cent and playing my part in a promotion is a feeling you cherish forever,' he adds.