Paul Warne has spent three decades in professional football, collecting promotions like rare trading cards. But there's one prize that's always slipped through his fingers: a league title.

The MK Dons boss is on the verge of changing that narrative. His squad punched their ticket to promotion number five last weekend with a commanding 3-0 victory over Tranmere Rovers, and now they've got their eyes on the ultimate prize. With just one game remaining, Warne's men hold a slim one-point lead over second-place Bromley—a team that spent weeks atop League Two—heading into a season finale at Fleetwood Town.

"I've been in professional football for about 30 years, I've had a lot of joy but I've never had a sniff at a title," Warne admitted to BBC Three Counties Radio. "I've been a bridesmaid quite a few times. Maybe it's time to shave my beard off and be a bride."

The former Rotherham United and Derby County boss isn't hiding his confidence, but he's keeping it measured. "The lads, in my opinion—and I'm not being arrogant—I think they're the best team in the league. It would be fitting if we could win the title," he said. "But if we don't, if we give everything and we're not good enough, Bromley win and we don't... then they've thoroughly deserved it and will have my utmost respect."

Warne's vision for the finale is clear: "If we could put on a performance that would get us three points, it would be a fitting end to a really amazing season."

Since securing promotion, the gaffer has been enjoying some well-earned R&R. "I've had a lot more sleep, the sun's been out, and the end of the season is here," he said, sounding more relaxed than a man with everything on the line.

But perhaps the most telling moment came when Warne reflected on the post-match celebrations. At other clubs, he noted, you go out there after promotion and "you're not coming back with any clothes on. So normally you then come out in the upper tier and wave like you're Caesar." This time, it was different. "I did thoroughly enjoy it. I always enjoy promotions and wins—I don't want to come across as a grumpy person—but I'm normally quite happy just to watch the lads and feel chuffed."

For a manager who's been the bridesmaid more times than he'd like, Saturday represents a chance to finally walk down the aisle. And with a squad he genuinely believes is the best in the league, Warne might just get his happy ending.