‘We will have no fear’ – Dons defender looks ahead to Chelsea EFL Cup trip
AFC Wimbledon will head to Premier League side Chelsea with no fear next Wednesday for their second round EFL Cup clash.
That is the verdict of Dons defender Ryan Johnson, who helped his side produce a 2-1 comeback win over Coventry City to help set up the glamour tie.
Wimbledon reached the third round in the 2021-22 campaign – they lost 3-0 at Arsenal.
This is the first time Wimbledon will head to Stamford Bridge as a phoenix side.
“These are the types of moments why you want to be a footballer – to play at the biggest stage against the best players,” Johnson told the South London Press.
“You never know what can happen, and that’s the beauty of football. We will go there and enjoy it. We will have no fear.
“There is a real feel-good factor and togetherness. You know on the pitch we will all fight for each other and give 100 per cent for the shirt and the club.
“It’s going to be a tough ask – we’re not going to beat about the bush with that – but we will give it our best shot.”
The defender joined the Dons over the summer as a free agent after leaving League Two rivals Stockport.
He has started every game under Johnnie Jackson this season and Wimbledon have only conceded two goals in five outings.
Chelsea have reportedly spent £345.9million on summer signings. Johnson could end up facing Senegal frontman Nicolas Jackson, former Addicks youngster Mason Burstow – who made his Premier League debut at West Ham on Sunday – or Raheem Sterling.
“We will see who they put out and then I’ll plan my game around that,” said Johnson.
“It’s always nice to test yourself at the highest level and see how you compare.
“Even playing against Coventry was a really good test. You have to thrive off these experiences.”
JOHNSON PICTURE: KEITH GILLARD
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