AFC Wimbledon boss explains short-term deal for former Millwall keeper

Johnnie Jackson has explained why AFC Wimbledon have signed former Millwall keeper Ryan Sandford on a short-term deal.

The 24-year-old, who was on the bench for Saturday’s 1-0 defeat at home to Bradford, has been training with the Dons since July.

Wimbledon announced the ex-Maidstone loanee had penned a month-long deal on Friday with back-up Nik Tzanev away on international duty with New Zealand.

Sandford was released by Millwall at the end of last season.

“He’s done enough for us to have that confidence to offer him that short-term deal,” said Jackson.

“We found ourselves short with Nik going away. We were unable to get the game called off.

“You can roll the dice and not put a keeper [on the bench], but Sod’s law, the minute you do that, you come unstuck.

“We covered ourselves. He’s been great with us in training and we’re pleased to have him on a short term.”

PICTURE: KEITH GILLARD