‘A fresh start’ – AFC Wimbledon keeper Alex Bass on season-long loan move from Sunderland

Alex Bass admits he is looking for a “fresh start” at AFC Wimbledon after completing his season-long loan move from Sunderland.

The former Portsmouth and Bradford stopper joined the Dons after only making two appearances – both in cup competitions – for the Black Cats last season.

Championship side Sunderland left Bass out of their 26-man pre-season tour of the USA, with the 25-year-old completing his move to Plough Lane on Wednesday evening.

“I’m really excited to be here,” Bass told the club’s YouTube channel.

“As soon as I heard about the opportunity to come here, I was really excited. I just can’t wait to get started.

“I spoke to the manager [Johnnie Jackson]. He said: ‘Come down. Do what you do, and be yourself around the place. And hopefully [you will ] improve the team.’

“It’s been a tough one for me. I obviously haven’t played the games I had hoped to in the last couple of years, so a fresh start is what I was looking for. 

“I can’t wait to get going here.”

Bass will work under the guidance of long-standing goalkeeper coach Ashley Bayes.

“I have heard great things about him,” Bass added. 

“I have been to Wimbledon many times with other teams, and you always hear great things.

“Even Aaron Ramsdale speaks very highly of him. I’m looking forward to working with him.”