‘He’s a valuable asset’ – Dons determined not to let Jack Rudoni leave on the cheap

Johnnie Jackson says it would take a substantial offer for AFC Wimbledon to consider allowing Jack Rudoni to depart this summer.

The academy graduate has made more than 100 appearances for the club after making his debut in 2019.

Rudoni, who predominantly features in an advanced attacking role, recorded 12 goals and seven assists in all competitions last season for the Dons.

Sunderland and Barnsley both expressed an interest in the 21-year-old last winter, but the Dons knocked back any advances.

While it was expected that Rudoni would move on from Plough Lane this summer, the players are due back in for training this coming Monday as preparations begin for pre-season training.

Wimbledon boss Jackson told the South London Press: “He [Rudoni] is a player who is really, really well thought of at the club – he’s a highly regarded young player.

“Obviously, there is a lot of interest in him, and the club turned down substantial bids in January. So, for him to leave, it would take another substantial bid to prise him away. He’s another young player that we don’t particularly want to lose.”

When asked if he believed Rudoni would benefit from another season of playing football consistently and continuing to produce goal contributions, Jackson added: “I would like to think that working under me, he would enjoy it and flourish.

“You build your team around those sorts of players, so I think another season at the club would do him great.

“I understand that he has done well and he is sought after, so naturally, there is going to be attention. But playing football week in, week out, is beneficial for lads that age.

“If he went somewhere and didn’t play so much, it could be detrimental. I understand the attraction, and he’s going to have his own ambitions of playing at the highest level, but that will come regardless.

“For me, I would love him to stay, but I also understand why his head might be turned. But it needs to be right for the football club as well – he’s a valuable asset.”

PICTURE: KEITH GILLARD