Signing of Darren Jones is a "massive coup" says Neal
Neal Ardley has moved swiftly to bolster his defensive ranks by signing vastly experienced centre-back Darren Jones.
Jones only left League 1 Shrewsbury Town earlier this week and Neal believes he has pulled off a “massive coup” during the January transfer window with other clubs having expressed an interest in the defender.
The 30-year-old started his career at Bristol City, before having spells at Cheltenham Town, Forest Green, his hometown club Newport County, and Hereford United. A two-year stint in League 2 followed with Aldershot Town, where he played with current Dons players Ross Worner and Aaron Morris.
His impressive performances for The Shots attracted the interest of his old Hereford boss Graham Turner, who signed him for newly promoted League 1 side Shrewsbury in the summer of 2012.
Neal Ardley said: “The feedback I’ve had is that he’s been Shrewsbury’s best centre-back this season so it’s a massive coup for us. There were one or two other clubs that were desperate to get his signature and we’re absolutely delighted to have signed Darren.”
More of Neal’s thoughts on Wimbledon’s new signing will appear later on the official website and we will also feature a video interview with Darren on Dons Player.