New signing straight in the squad for Torquay
Neal Ardley has today made his second signing during January with the arrival of versatile defender Aaron Morris, who is likely to go straight into Wimbledon’s squad for tomorrow’s match against Torquay United.
Morris, who can also play in midfield, made over 100 appearances for Aldershot during three seasons before injury ended his stay at The Recreation Ground.
Having brought Morris through the ranks during his time as Academy Manager with the Bluebirds, Neal Ardley has monitored the player’s progress for some time and he believes the Cardiff-born 24-year-old will be a “very good acquisition” for Wimbledon.
Morris was a key player for Aldershot before he suffered an anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injury in March that ended his 2012/13 campaign prematurely after being a regular for The Shots last season.
“I coached Aaron when I was at Cardiff, where he came through the ranks,” said Neal. “When he first joined, he was a central midfielder, but I noticed that no one could beat him in one-on-one situations so I played him at full-back. He was outstanding and managed to make the first-team squad at Cardiff. He played in central midfield for Aldershot last season and I know that they were very disappointed to lose him when they were fighting relegation.
“Aaron can play in a number of positions, but he can be a very good centre-back in my eyes. When he suffered an ACL injury I sent him my best wishes and said there could be something here for him if he got strong again. I would have signed Aaron in the summer if he was not injured. Aaron is a very powerful athlete and once he gets himself fully match sharp then the fans will see what a good player he is.
Dons Player subscribers can watch full video interviews with Neal Ardley and Aaron Morris later on today.