Long chase for midfielder pays off
Neal Ardley has finally succeeded in bringing Dannie Bulman to AFC Wimbledon after a long pursuit of the experienced former Crawley Town midfielder.
It was a case of third time lucky for Neal when Dannie signed on the dotted line this afternoon with the Wimbledon manager having twice previously chased his signature.
Dannie, who started his career at Ashford Town (Middlesex) and has a wealth of Football League experience with Wycombe Wanderers, Oxford United and Crawley, is a player who Neal believes will be “a big signing” for AFC Wimbledon.
“I have tried to sign Dannie three times since I’ve been here, including during my first January transfer window when we were fighting relegation,” Neal revealed. “We watched Crawley several times last season for various reasons and I've been really impressed with him. Finally, I've got my man.
When I’ve spoken to several people about him that’s the feedback I’ve received. I’ve seen it with my own eyes; he’s a very fit and energetic midfielder and I think he will be a big player for us next season.” “He’s a fit 35-year-old. And Dannie tells me that he has the body of a 25-year-old.
Dannie revealed that he was offered the chance to continue playing League 1 football with Crawley next season, but his mind was made up to join the Dons.
Speaking to Rob Cornell on Dons Player, Dannie said: “It’s a bit strange leaving Crawley because I’ve been there for many years, but it was a move that I thought would be good for me. There was a contract offer made to me by John (Gregory) and the staff at Crawley, but I felt it was time for me to move on. When I spoke to Neal it reassured me that I wanted to come here and play some good football. It’s always nice when someone who has played at the highest level wants you and that was a big thing for me.”
Dons Player subscribers can watch extensive video interviews with Neal Ardley and Dannie Bulman later today.