AFC Wimbledon chief not resigned to Joe Pigott’s exit this summer

BY DANIEL MARSH

Mark Robinson has refused to give up hope of persuading Joe Pigott to commit to a new AFC Wimbledon deal but admitted he “would never stand in the way of a player bettering himself”.

The Dons’ star striker netted his 20th goal of the season from the penalty spot to start the fightback in their 2-1 win over Oxford in midweek, writes Daniel Marsh.

The former Charlton man, 27, has netted 52 goals since joining the Dons in 2018 and has been coveted in recent transfer windows after his consistent record in front of goal over the past three years.

With Pigott’s deal set to expire in the summer, there are question marks over whether he will be plying his trade in SW19 next year.

The South London Press understands that Charlton were interested in the January window, only for the salary cap to scupper any hopes of a deal happening.

The Addicks have since come under new management, with Nigel Adkins replacing Lee Bowyer in the Valley hotseat.

Robinson is hoping that the project he is overseeing could be enough to keep the talismanic frontman around.

“I’d like to think Joe can see what we’re building,” said the Dons head coach when asked about Pigott’s future.

“I would never stand in the way of a player bettering himself, but I think what we’re building here is really, really exciting.

“And in the events of the last few days [the storm surrounding the European Super League], I’m hoping that people will start to see that football’s much bigger. It’s an incredible sport, an incredible game and we need a massive reset button in the game. People need to start playing for values and what clubs and fans stand for.

“I think Joe will see that and what we’re going to try and create here. I hope there’s every chance of keeping him, because he’s very important to what the club wants to do.”

PICTURE: KEITH GILLARD