Caretaker boss Glyn Hodges admits Dons players “shell shocked” by Wally Downes suspension

BY RICHARD CAWLEY

Glyn Hodges has described AFC Wimbledon’s players as “shell shocked” over the suspension of manager Wally Downes.

The Dons announced yesterday that they had taken the action after their boss was charged by the FA for allegedly placing eight football bets.

Assistant manager Hodges will take the team at Peterborough on Saturday.

“Everyone walked in shell shocked,” he told the club’s official website. “I know the news was out there yesterday. I had a quick meeting with Joe [Palmer, chief executive] and he is going to speak to them tomorrow.

“The challenge for the staff and myself – everybody – is to get better. However long the process takes, can we have more points on the board, build momentum and get a bit of confidence?”

Hodges admitted to having “mixed emotions” about stepping in to lead the Dons. Like Downes, the South Londoner played for the old Wimbledon.

“I go back a long time with this club,” he said. “But there are mixed feelings because of the circumstances. It’s still something that is going to stay with me and I’m really proud.

“We’ve got to get moving and get some results, sooner rather than later.”

PICTURE BY PAUL EDWARDS