AFC Wimbledon appoint Mark Bowen as new boss – on deal until end of the season

AFC Wimbledon have appointed Mark Bowen as their new manager on a short-term contract until the end of this season.

The Dons parted company with head coach Mark Robinson on Monday after a 21-game winless run and Bowen will take charge of the team for Saturday’s match at Sheffield Wednesday.

Wimbledon are in the League One relegation zone and have seven fixtures left to climb out of trouble.

Former Arsenal and Chelsea coach Eddie Niedzwiecki, who worked with Bowen when he was Reading boss, will be his assistant.

“I am deeply honoured to have been offered this position,” Bowen told the club’s official website. “I fully understand what’s at stake and what needs to be done over the remaining seven games. Take my word for it, we will all be doing everything possible to keep this proud club in League One.”

Dons interim chairmen Mick Buckley added: “We are excited to be welcoming such experienced and respected coaches at this stage in the season.

“Mark understands the enormity of the job ahead. In many respects it speaks volumes for his character and personality that he is willing to take on this challenge with so much at stake.

“We can only do everything we possibly can to support him to the hilt and I’m confident that’s exactly what our fans will be doing on Saturday and our forthcoming home game against Charlton on Tuesday.”