Dons boss still chasing a couple more transfer deals but claims squad are ‘raring to go’

AFC Wimbledon manager Johnnie Jackson is “really pleased” with the transfer business conducted ahead of the start of the League Two season but wants to add one or two more new faces before the window closes.

The Dons have brought in 22-year-old forward Josh Davison from Charlton Athletic on a permanent deal.

They have also added experience to their ranks by completing the free signings of Alex Pearce and Chris Gunter, both 33.

Jackson also tapped into Wimbledon’s relationship with Premier League outfit Brentford to bring in exciting 21-year-old midfielder Paris Maghoma on a season-long loan.

“I have been really pleased with the work we have done with our recruitment,” Jackson told the South London Press. “We have brought a real good blend in there.

“Josh Davison is someone who has massive potential at this level. He’s going to be a big player for us going forward.

“Young Paris comes with a huge reputation, you can see straightaway his attributes and ability. He will allow us to play the way we want to play.

“Hopefully, we can maybe add one or two more to help us in certain positions, and then I’ll be a happy man.

“There will be a lot of movement late on – players that will become available who necessarily aren’t available today.  If the right one comes up, and we feel as though we need to move on it, then we will. We might have to wait until the very last knockings.”

A criticism of the Dons’ relegation campaign just passed was that they failed to strike the right balance of experience and youth, with an over-reliance on youngsters culminating in a 27-game winless run and their League One exit.

But over the summer, Jackson acted swiftly to make ex-Millwall captain Alex Pearce his first signing of the summer. He also brought in Wales’ most capped player, Chris Gunter, following his release from Charlton.

“They’re going to be vital,” explained Jackson of the experienced duo.

“They were lads that I highlighted from day dot. Not only their ability on the pitch, but you have seen in the games already that they’re more than capable of doing what I require of people in those positions.

“Also, their leadership skills off the pitch and the way they pull the group together, the way they train, and the way they conduct themselves every day is an example to every member of that squad, especially the younger lads.

“I couldn’t be more pleased with that aspect of it, and they will be driving that group on constantly throughout the season.”

While Jack Rudoni left the club to join Championship side Huddersfield Town, which saw the Dons receive a club-record transfer fee in the process, the club have fended off reported interest in Luke McCormick and Ayoub Assal.

“Rudoni left, but beyond that, we didn’t want to let anyone go,” said Jackson on the importance of keeping hold of Assal and McCormick.

“They’re big players for us – important, young players that we want to be a part of what we want to do going forward.

“I’m pleased that we are keeping the main bulk of the group together.”

The Dons kick off their League Two campaign against Neil Harris’ Gillingham side this Saturday.

“I can’t wait to get going now,” added Jackson.

“I have loved pre-season, and I have loved getting to know the new group and building it and moulding it in my style – I have loved the way that they have brought into that.

“I feel as though we’re in a really good place now – we’re ready. I know that the boys are raring to go.

“The friendlies are out the way, and you’re just really keen to get going now – we obviously want to get off to that flying start.

“We put the lads in a really good position – they’re nice and fit, well-structured and drilled. We’re feeling confident going into it.”

PICTURES: KEITH GILLARD