AFC Wimbledon boss Johnnie Jackson provides injury update on key trio ahead of Crawley

AFC Wimbledon boss Johnnie Jackson will make a call on Monday over Jake Reeves’ availability for Tuesday night’s clash at home to Crawley.

The 30-year-old has been missing since the goalless draw at Bradford, with Armani Little and James Ball starting the last four games alongside each other.

Wimbledon are one point off the top seven after they picked up a point in their 1-1 draw at home to Morecambe on Saturday afternoon.

“Perhaps Jake,” said Jackson when asked if he expected any injury boosts ahead of Tuesday.

“He trained the back end of the week so we’ll look at that on Monday and make the call.

“He’s been out a while so we don’t want to take risks. But, at the same time, he’s our captain and we want him back as soon as possible – he’s an important player. 

“I don’t want to lose him for any more games this season, so I’ll have a chat with him, like I always do, and we’ll make a call on that. 

Centre-back duo Ryan Johnson and Joe Lewis have both been recovering from longer-term injuries.

“They’re a bit further – probably a few weeks away,” admitted Jackson.

“They’re progressing nicely and both in good spirits.

“I spoke to them before the game and they both feel like they could be back sooner than we thought – players are optimists.

“If we can stay around it and then start to get key players back for us, the likes of Reevesy missing and Josh Neufville, makes us stronger.

“Whether they’re starters or the bench, it’s all a knock-on.

“The sooner we get them back the better.”