Will Grigg stars for MK Dons as Sunderland are beaten at Shrewsbury Town

Grigg has struggled for goals and form since joining Sunderland in a big-money move from Wigan Athletic two years ago and was allowed to join MK Dons on loan for the rest of this season on deadline day.

With Sunderland playing MK Dons twice in quick succession last week, Grigg had to wait for his debut as he wasn’t allowed to play against his parent club.

His debut came against Rochdale on Tuesday evening, with the striker providing two assists in a 4-1 win, setting up Matt O'Riley to score the opener at Spotland before laying the ball off for Cameron Jerome for the fourth.

And he won praise from boss Russell Martin.

"Griggy is such a clever player," said Martin to the MK Citizen.

"He's a really big player with what he adds. We've got a lot of options now.

"I was disappointed for him not to get a goal because he deserved one, but the two assists were of real quality. He pressed hard, was in great defensive positions and looked really good for us.

"We'll have to manage him but he gave us everything and if he continues to do that, he'll be a big player.

"His game isn't just about goals, he will score them but it's about the contribution."

Grigg has another year left on his Sunderland contract as is due to return to the Stadium of Light in the summer.