Wimbledon manager aims to tweak his squad
Neal Ardley is aiming to fine-tune his squad next month rather than repeat the sweeping changes of the last January transfer window.
The Wimbledon manager spoke about his plans for January during an interview for Dons Player yesterday.
“We are looking at both ends of the pitch, defensively and up front,” said Neal. “Michael Smith is a big one for us and we would love to keep him so we will keep monitoring that. At the same time we might take some players on short-term or long-term options if we are not able to (keep Michael). We are on the ball with it and Erik Samuelson knows what we are looking at. Simon Bassey and I have had several meetings to put plans into place.”
Neal has so far made several key additions during the two transfer windows since he took over and perhaps none better than goalkeeper Ross Worner last summer.
The former Charlton goalkeeper (pictured above with Neil Cox and Neal Ardley on the day he signed for Wimbledon) was again in top form against Plymouth and captain Alan Bennett says that Worner has gradually grown in confidence this season.
“Ross is really good saving shots from distance and coming off his line to collect crosses,” said Bennett. “The manager said at the start of this season that Ross could be a fans favourite and it took him a while, but he is starting to win people over. Ross is getting stronger and stronger.”
Dons Player subscribers can watch full video interviews with Neal Ardley and Alan Bennett on our premium site.