Dons sign released Stockport defender

AFC Wimbledon have signed defender Ryan Johnson on a free transfer after he left League Two rivals Stockport County.

The 26-year-old has penned a two-year deal at Plough Lane.

Johnson looks set to battle with Alex Pearce, Will Nightingale and Paul Kalamabyi for a role in Johnnie Jackson’s side.

The left-footed defender, who has also had spells at Port Vale and Hartlepool, featured 27 times last season for Stockport.

Head of football operations Craig Cope said: “It’s no secret that we’ve been after a centre-back, so to bring one in of Ryan’s calibre – his CV includes two promotions and a play-off final in the last three seasons – is a major coup for us.

“He offers a real physical presence at the back with quality on his left side. He will fit into the Club well as he’s got a great temperament and understands what’s required to win consistently.

“As staff, we are really pleased to have six permanent signings completed at this stage, but we are not resting on our laurels as we continue to shape the squad in the build-up to 5 August.”