AFC Wimbledon head coach thanks released trio for efforts

Mark Robinson has thanked Callum Reilly, Luke O’Neill and Shane McLoughlin for their efforts at AFC Wimbledon after it was announced the trio would be released at the end of their contracts this summer.

Reilly joined the Dons in the summer of 2019 from Gillingham and has gone on to make 58 appearances and scored five goals in his time with AFC Wimbledon.

Head coach Robinson told AFC Wimbledon’s official website: “I have got to know Callum really well in his time here as he is doing his coaching badges, so we have had many chats about football and educating players well before I became involved with the first team.

“Callum has completely bought into the AFC Wimbledon story and his dad was an avid follower of every game. Callum has put in many excellent performances in his time here and he was pivotal in our victory over Wigan in my first league game as interim manager.

“Unfortunately, Callum experienced an injury shortly after that, but the fact he carried on playing with a broken bone in his foot for nearly half a game showed his commitment to the cause. I would like to thank Callum for his excellent professionalism and we wish him all the very best in his playing and future coaching career.”

O’Neill has also been released from AFC Wimbledon. Since signing from Gillingham in 2019 he has made 58 appearances and has scored one goal for the Dons.

“I really enjoyed getting to know Luke better when I was brought closer to the first team,” said Robinson.

“Luke has played a huge part in us staying up over my 21 games as head coach, with his quality on the ball creating chances and goals for us. Luke has bought into everything new we have introduced, which I am extremely grateful for, as your senior players buying into it is so important. We wish him every success in the rest of his career.”

McLoughlin joined the Dons in the summer of 2019 from Ipswich Town. He made 69 appearances and  scored three goals.

“Shane had an excellent start to the season when the team was in good form,” said Robinson. “Unfortunately, during my spell in charge he did not start as many games after suffering an injury, but he was always ready to make an impact in games when he came on, which he did regularly.

“Despite being determined to start more games, he remained focused and professional in our run in as well as being a key member of the excellent culture the players formed together. I am sure Shane will fulfil his potential and we wish him all the very best in the future.”

MAIN PHOTO: SEAN GOSLING