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Kane Wilson’s Derby County farewell message after MK Dons move raises eyebrows amid ‘control’ claim

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Derby County’s summer of signings is set to finally come to an end on Monday evening, as the transfer window comes to a close.

The Rams have made 13 signings so far, with Ben Brereton Diaz the latest, and there are hopes that one more will arrive before the 7pm deadline, while this is expected to be a busy day in terms of outgoings.

Patrick Roberts could be John Eustace’s final piece of the puzzle, four years on from scoring the goal that ensured the club’s Championship survival, but with all these new arrivals, sales also have to happen.

However, there was perhaps some shock to see Kane Wilson join League Two side MK Dons from Derby. Nevertheless, the right-back’s farewell post suggests that the move was not entirely planned.

Kane Wilson sends Derby County fans cryptic message following MK Dons move

Wilson was a part of the Rams squad that won promotion from League One in 2024, scoring a vital header against Bolton Wanderers in the March of that year that saw his side take control of the second automatic promotion space.

Kane Wilson of Derby County looks on during the Sky Bet Championship match between Hull City AFC and Derby County FC
Photo by Ben Roberts Photo/Getty Images

He had only just returned to the fray after injury this season before departing Pride Park, and in an Instagram post, it appears that the decision to leave Derby was not his.

The right-back said: “Rams, the last two seasons have been an incredible journey I’ll never forget. Playing my part in getting this club back closer to where it belongs is one of my proudest achievements. From promotion to securing Championship status, Pride Park has always been an amazing place to play, and it’s been an honour to wear the shirt.

“Football isn’t always in your control. I’ve given everything for this club and played through tough moments to be out there for the team, but sometimes decisions are made that are out of your hands. A new opportunity for me and my family has come my way and I’m ready to give everything for the next chapter. What I’ll never lose, is the bond I’ve had with the Derby fans, that’s something truly special to me.

“Thank you to the Gaffer, staff, and my teammates for everything. Most of all, thank you to the fans for making my time here so special.”

What type of player are MK Dons getting in Kane Wilson?

MK Dons have had a spectacular summer in League Two, with the early arrival of Nathaniel Mendez-Laing taking the division by surprise.

With the likes of Callum Paterson now in Buckinghamshire, the addition of Wilson will only add to their strength out wide. The now former Derby full-back was excellent at dancing down the right flank before putting in teasing crosses, although the quality of those balls was sometimes lacking.

Appearances (starts)33 (26)
Minutes played2431
Goals (assists)2 (1)
Chances created21
Tackle success57.7%
Duel success46.8%
Dribble success43.5%
Kane Wilson Derby County stats 2024/25 – FotMob

Defensively, there is work to do for the 25-year-old. However, in a division that is two below the Championship, this should not be a massive issue for the ex-Bristol City man and MK Dons will only benefit from his arrival.

For Derby, the signing of Max Johnston has ensured that Wilson’s loss will not be felt. Nevertheless, his farewell message does suggest that he would have preferred to stay at Pride Park if he was given the chance, having triggered a one-year extension on his contract in the summer.