Dons boss explains defender’s early withdrawal in Crewe draw

AFC Wimbledon boss Johnnie Jackson has explained why Lee Brown was forced off in the first half during their 1-1 draw with Crewe Alexandra.

Brown, who recently returned from illness which kept him out of the 1-0 loss at home to Sutton, had to come off in the 43rd minute.

The former Portsmouth and Bristol City full-back had been playing as a centre-back under Jackson, and he started the game alongside Paul Kalambayi.

The Dons took the lead just before half time when Ayoub Assal bundled his third of the season past Arthur Okonkwo from a corner.

Crewe levelled midway through the second half when Rio Adebisi turned Kelvin Mellor’s header back across goal past Tzanev.

Josh Davison had the opportunity from the spot to restore Wimbledon’s lead but saw his penalty saved by Okonkwo.

“It looks like his hamstring,” confirmed Jackson.

“I’m not sure how bad, but he knew straight away that it was his hammy. 

“We will just assess that and see where we go with it.

“It feels like something is happening in every game, whether it be injuries or suspensions. 

“The amount of injuries we have had this season has been incredible, especially to the backline. When you look at it, we have Alex Pearce out, Will Nightingale out, and now Browny is out.

“We have had some issues back there, and we have had to put Ryley Towler in midfield because of the issues we have had there.

“We have had to juggle the pack. Hopefully, now we just come through a game without someone pulling up just so I can pick through the same group.”