AFC Wimbledon appoint Johnnie Jackson as new manager – ex-Charlton boss pens two-year deal

Johnnie Jackson has been appointed AFC Wimbledon’s new manager on a two-year contract.

The 39-year-old only left Charlton Athletic 13 days ago after owner Thomas Sandgaard decided to take up the option to terminate his contract.

But Jackson has swiftly taken on his next challenge with the Dons, who were relegated to League Two at the end of last season.

Yeovil legend Terry Skiverton will be his assistant. He ended his long association with the Glovers to become first-team coach at Charlton in mid-January and also left his post when Jackson lost his job.

“I cannot wait to get started,” Jackson told Wimbledon’s official website. “I am extremely familiar with the AFC Wimbledon story and have total respect for what the fans have achieved – especially the marvellous new ground.

“AFC Wimbledon and The Cherry Red Records Stadium don’t belong in League Two and I’ll be doing everything possible to get us back up again.”

Dons interim chairman Mick Buckley said: “We are thrilled to be making these appointments. Johnnie had a successful first season as manager at Charlton last season following four years in assistant/caretaker manager roles.

“We wanted a young, hungry manager with a point to prove and that, coupled with his demonstrable knowledge of how to get results, gave him the edge over a strong field of candidates.

“I would like to thank my team at the club and those who gave us advice during this thorough recruitment process. We received many applications, contacted other potential candidates, and drew up a shortlist with the help of three senior football advisors.

“We then had an interview panel, which included a senior football expert and Dons Trust chair Kris Stewart, representing our owners, the Dons Trust membership.”