MK Dons have made 24-year-old left-back Mitch Hancox their fourth signing of the summer. Hancox joins from last season’s National League winners, Macclesfield Town, on a one-year contract.
MK Dons Complete Mitch Hancox Signing
Hancox started his career in the youth academy at hometown club Birmingham City. His first involvement with the first-team was being an unused substitute in Birmingham’s Europa League play-off round second leg. His debut came in the October of the next season, replacing Curtis Davies after 80 minutes in a 1-0 defeat to Huddersfield Town.
After falling down the pecking order at Birmingham, having briefly established himself as the first-choice left-back, Hancox joined League Two side Crawley Town on a month’s loan in October 2015. His first senior goal came in his second appearance for Crawley, curling in a stunning effort against Leyton Orient.
Hancox played no more first-team football for Birmingham after his return and was released at the end of the season.
National League
Hancox signed with National League side Macclesfield Town at the start of the 2016/17 season. He made his debut in a 2-1 victory over Torquay United, the opening game of the season. He finished his first campaign with 38 appearances and six goals – one hat-trick. Hancox was also part of the side that reached the FA Trophy final against York City.
Hancox’s second hat-trick for the club came against Halifax Town in a 4-1 away win.
Fitting in at the Dons
MK Dons’ regular left-back, Dean Lewington, saw his playing time reduced last season. Although he made a short return under Dan Micciche and Keith Millen, it became clear that he would not be able to play every game in the next season.
Ben Tilney was in line to replace Lewington for the 2017/18 season. However, he saw himself instead loaned out to Brackley Town, a move which confused many supporters. It was expected that he would come in this season instead, but it was announced earlier this month that he had joined Northern Ireland Championship side Larne.
Therefore, it seems only obvious that Hancox will slot into his usual left-back role. Lewington will then, most likely, act as his back-up, whilst possibly continuing with the coaching role he took up under Micciche’s management.
Hancox was also deployed as a holding midfielder on some occasions for Macclesfield. It is unlikely that he will be needed there following the signings of Ryan Watson and Lawson D’ath to replace the departed Ed Upson, but it’s clearly important to Paul Tisdale to have players with great versatility.
Thoughts From the Player
Speaking to mkdons.com, Hancox said of the move: “It’s amazing to be here. I had two brilliant years at Macclesfield but I’m grateful for the opportunity I’ve got here.
“Everything about the Club is set up to do well. The manager was really enthusiastic when I met him and he’s had success in this league. I’m excited to get going and can’t wait to start.
“I work hard – that is a big part of my game and if you see I’m not doing that then do tell me! I like to chip in with goals too and be creative, putting balls in the box.”
MK Dons manager Paul Tisdale also said: “Mitch has good pedigree having started his career at Birmingham City, where he made first-team appearances as a young player. He moved on and he’s had a couple of very good seasons at Macclesfield Town – notably last season in a promotion-winning team.
“He can play up and down the left-hand side, he’s full of energy and I’m looking forward to seeing how he fits into this environment.”
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