Dons sign Hibernian centre-back on two-year deal

AFC Wimbledon have signed centre-back Riley Harbottle from Hibernian on a two-year deal.

The 23-year-old spent the second half of last season on loan at Colchester United, where he made 12 appearances in League Two.

He completes Johnnie Jackson’s centre-back options, with Joe Lewis, Ryan Johnson and Isacc Ogundere starting the opening game of the season against Colchester.

Speaking to AFC Wimbledon’s website, Harbottle said: “The future is exciting for me. I’m buzzing to take on this new opportunity and challenge. This is a really exciting club that I was determined to be a part of.

“I spoke to the manager previously about coming here, so when I got the call this time it was a no-brainer. I want to settle down and stay here for a while. I want to give everything and get Wimbledon to where it should be, which is in the league above.”

Wombles boss Johnnie Jackson added: “Riley very much fits the profile of what we are looking for. He’s young, hungry and has good experience at the level. We’ve now got good depth in our defensive positions and have added another front-foot defender who will suit our style of play. His willingness to sign also gives us great confidence.”

Head of football operations Craig Cope said: “We’re delighted to welcome Riley to Wimbledon.

“He is a player we have monitored for a while and suits us. He is hungry and ready to kick start his career in yellow and blue.”