Dons looking at loan options for youngster

AFC Wimbledon boss Johnnie Jackson has confirmed that the club are looking at loan options for youngster Alfie Bendle.

The 17-year-old made his debut for the Dons under Mark Bowen in the 3-4 defeat to Accrington Stanley on the final day of last season’s League One campaign. Following the game, Bowen backed Bendle to be a “big player” for the club.

Bendle has played a handful of minutes in League Two under Jackson and has also been a regular on the bench throughout the campaign.

He has started both EFL Trophy games against Aston Villa U21s and Crawley Town.

Fellow young midfielder Kwaku Frimpong recently went on loan to Dartford, with Jackson explaining that the 19-year-old ‘really benefited’ from his month spell with the National League South side.

“We’re looking at loan options for Alfie,” Jackson told the South London Press following the 1-1 draw with Crewe on Tuesday night.

“We’re getting bodies back in that position with Woodyard fit again and Maghoma back from suspension, so if it’s right for everyone, we’ll look at it.

“It would be huge for his development. I had a conversation with Alfie, and it would be brilliant for him if he gets out to play some senior football. 

“With all the trials and tribulations that come with that, he needs to experience it.”

Bendle took part in the pre-match warm-up on Tuesday evening at Plough Lane but was not named on the bench.

PICTURE: KEITH GILLARD