Promotion-winning squad started to take shape
Terry Brown wasted no time putting together a competitive squad for AFC Wimbledon’s first season at Conference National level and on 29 May, 2009, he completed a vital signing.
Steven Gregory (pictured in action during a friendly against Wycombe that summer) signed on the dotted line from Hayes & Yeading to reinforce a squad that had just won the Conference South title in style.
Speaking on the day he signed, Steven said: "When I played last season at Kingsmeadow I remember saying to Tom Cadmore, our captain, that it would be great to play here every week. It is great to be given a chance to do so. I am really looking forward to it."
Terry Brown said: “Steven played for Hayes and Yeading last season but is now out of contract so we were able to sign him. He is under 24, so Hayes are entitled to compensation. The two clubs have had initial talks about a fee and we are hopeful that a suitable agreement will be reached and therefore not require both clubs to attend an FA Tribunal.
"Steven is a player who I have monitored since his Wycombe days. He fits the profile we have established of seeking young players who are tall and athletic and who we can develop. We hope that he will become part of a successful Wimbledon team over the next few years."
That was certainly the case as holding midfielder Gregory went on to play a vital role in Wimbledon’s promotion to the Football League two seasons later at Manchester.
It had been a busy week for Terry on the transfer front with goalkeeper Jack Turner having already joined and defender Paul Lorraine completing an emotional Dons return after leaving Woking.