‘Something to think about’ – Will Jaaskelainen leaves Dons boss with a goalkeeper selection call

AFC Wimbledon manager Johnnie Jackson has said that goalkeeper Will Jaaskelainen has given him “something to think about” after he made his debut in the 3-2 EFL Trophy win against Crawley Town last night.

The Dons brought Jaaskelainen in on an initial one-month contract after Nathan Broome suffered a foot injury in the 2-1 win against Aston Villa’s U21s.

The 24-year-old recorded 95 appearances during his five seasons with Crewe Alexandra before being allowed to leave as a free agent in the summer.

Nik Tzanev, the regular first choice between the sticks at Plough Lane, came in for criticism following the 2-0 loss to Northampton Town the last time the South Londoners played at home in League Two.

Tzanev dropped to the bench for Tuesday night’s EFL Trophy game, with Jaaskelainen handed his first start for the club.

Crawley’s first goal came via a Jack Powell shot from the edge of the box that deflected through a crowd of bodies and wrong-footed Jaaskelainen.

The visitors scored their second with the last kick of the game when Ludwig Francillett was left unmarked and allowed to convert a header at the back post.

“He was solid,” Jackson told the South London Press of Jaaskelainen’s debut. “I’m disappointed for him that he has conceded two goals, because I don’t think his performance warranted that.

“Everything that was asked of him, he did really well. He was very tidy in possession, he was calm, and there was nothing he could do about the two goals.

“It’s a little bit where we’re at in this minute – those are the types of goals that are going in against us. Thankfully, it hasn’t cost us tonight.

“Will has been first class. He has trained really well, and Ashley Bayes is really pleased with him – he’s settled into the group.

“Obviously, he has only been training so far, but we have given him that opportunity, and he has done well. He has given me something to think about.”