MK DONS boss Russell Martin described as an “incredible signing” former Cherries hero Andrew Surman and added: “He’s one of the best footballers I’ve played with.”

The 34-year-old this week agreed a short-term deal to link up with the League One Dons – and could feature in their home clash with Hull on Saturday.

Surman had been a free agent after his contract at Cherries expired in the summer. He had been training with Jason Tindall’s side to stay fit before joining up with Milton Keynes.

And manager Martin, who played with Surman during the pair’s time at Norwich, insisted the experienced midfielder would have a big impact on his troops.

He said: "It’s an incredible signing, he was a vice-captain of a Premier League team last season.

“He’s going to add a huge amount on and off the pitch, we’ve talked about the importance of having experience and people who have been there and done it, and suit our style – he’s exactly that.

"It’s another player I’ve played with but, hopefully, people can see we don’t just bring in anyone.

“The biggest reference for me is the fact I’ve spent time in the dressing room with these players and spent time on the pitch with them. He’s one of the best footballers I’ve played with and he’s only got better with age.”

Surman scored his first Cherries goal while on debut against the Dons in a 2-2 League One draw, when on loan from Southampton back in August 2005.

He went on to feature 226 times for the Dorset club and played a key role in piloting their journey to the Premier League.

Martin added: "He’s played for a team that like to play good football so he really does suit us.

“He’ll help the younger players as he’s a really good professional. He’s kept himself in really good shape and has been training all the way through lockdown – now we need to get him match fit.

“Adding Andrew Surman is a huge boost for us all, he’ll come in and get himself fit as quickly as possible and add a huge amount to the squad."