Mark Bowen: AFC Wimbledon should be one of promotion favourites in League Two

The Dons had their five-season stint in League One come to an end after they failed to pick up the three points and overturn a goal difference of seven which was needed if they were going to have a chance of survival.

Bowen has not been confirmed as manager for next season and told the South London Press in midweek that talks have to become “more serious” next week as he looks to implement plans for next season.

The Welshman reiterated his desire to have the job on a full-time basis after relegation was confirmed on Saturday afternoon.

“We’re hopeful,” Bowen added when asked if he would want to stay at Plough Lane.

“At the end of the day, it has got to be right for the club, if they feel that way, and it has got to be right for me, knowing that, if we’re going to do it, then we have got a real chance of making an impact next year.

“I see AFC Wimbledon, if not the favourites, then they should be one of the absolute favourites to bounce back next year – no doubt about it.

“You have got to make sure that, if that’s the feeling, we have got to put everything in place, and the structure has got to be right to make that happen.

“Sitting here now, it is a disappointment for everybody – raw emotions. But nothing has changed from what I have been saying the last few weeks – we would like to stay.

“I see that this club should be one of, if not the favourites, to bounce back next year, so they [the players] have got to make sure that they live with that pressure.

“Sometimes that can be a little bit too much for young players, but they have got to make sure that they grow from it, don’t feel sorry for themselves, and come back stronger.”

PICTURE: KEITH GILLARD