The bitter local rivalry fuelled by a 22-year wait

Many Luton fans are still angry about Wimbledon's move to Milton Keynes in 2003, despite the clubs being only 20 miles apart and having played each other rarely since. The last time MK Dons and Luton Town faced off was in November 2004 at the former National Hockey Stadium. Despite contrasting promotions and relegations, the two teams have not crossed paths until Saturday's League One game at Stadium MK (12:30 BST).

For some Hatters fans, resentment towards MK Dons runs deep due to the controversial franchise team move in 2003, which they saw as a betrayal of the club and its community. Mike Fanning, a Luton Town fan, expressed his disdain for MK Dons, stating that they represent a "franchise" and not the values of a working men's game.

Luton were nearly the MK Hatters in the 1980s, but after a massive backlash from supporters, including thousands signing a petition, the plans were scrapped. Luton fan John Pyper was involved in the resistance, and he is still upset about the club's relocation to Milton Keynes. He believes that the club could have become the MK Hatters, and the loyal supporters who protested and boycotted games played a crucial role in preserving Luton's existence.

MK Dons fan Jon Scudamore acknowledges the anger from Luton fans but notes that his club has grown used to it over the past 22 years. He emphasizes that the Luton fans understand the club's history and challenges. MK Dons manager Paul Warne recently shared his players' limited knowledge of the club's history, but he understands the significance of the rivalries and the passionate fans.

Despite the deep-seated animosity, 6,000 Hatters fans are expected to attend the game, with many promising not to spend money during their visit.