Matthew Moreno Has Trial Extended By MK Dons
[Written by Stephen Wright]
Matthew Moreno has had his trial at Milton Keynes Dons extended until the end of the season after impressing the Sky Bet League One club’s academy coaches.
Moreno has spent the past few weeks training with the MK Dons academy players and could play his first match for their under-18 side against Northampton Town Under-18 tomorrow [Saturday].
He was recommended to the Buckinghamshire outfit by Bermudian Peter Rickards, the club’s Sports and Education Trust Programme’s under-11 coach and Moreno’s former futsal coach at CP Athletic Development.
“The standard at MK Dons is much higher than I’m used to, but I think I’ve fitted in well,” Moreno, 18, told Bernews.
“All of the coaches have told me that I don’t look out of place. I’ve enjoyed it, and the coaches are really supportive.
“If you make a mistake, nobody is getting on you; everyone is just working hard to try and win the ball back.
“It was nice to hear they want me to stay until the end of the season; I must be doing something right. The possibility of being a pro feels like it’s just one step away.”
The Bermuda Under-20 player was understandably anxious when he began training with MK Dons but believes the salient life lessons drummed into him by local coaches Rickards and Andrew Bascome have helped smooth his transition to life in the UK both on and off the pitch.
“I played under Andrew Bascome at the ABC Football School; he has had a major influence on my football development,” said Moreno, who spent last season playing for Alicante City FC during a gap year on the Mediterranean coast of Spain.
“Both coach Bascome and coach Pete have helped shape me into the person I am today. They are big on having good characters in their programmes.
“That’s something they have always stressed, having good manners, having a firm handshake and looking people in the eye when you’re talking to them.
“I was very nervous when I was offered the opportunity [at MK Dons]. Going from playing below the semi-pro level in Spain to being at a pro academy in England is a leap.
“After speaking to my parents, we decided to take the opportunity and see what comes of it. It’s always better to at least try.”
Moreno believes his technical and physical attributes have helped him adapt quickly to the English game.
“I like to keep it simple, get the ball and receive and act as an outlet for my backline,” the defensive midfielder added. “I like to be physical, and I think my greatest attributes are my passing range and my football IQ.”
Congratulations Matthew and all the best to you. The sky’s the limit. Continue putting your best foot forward and you will achieve your dreams!