Striker praises fans in You Tube interview
Michael Smith’s farewell appearance for Wimbledon did not exactly go to plan at Dagenham yesterday, but the striker certainly made a big impression during his loan spell and he wished to thank the club’s fans for all their support.
to hear what Michael had to say about his stay at AFC Wimbledon. http://www.youtube.com/user/AFCWimbledonTVThe 22-year-old has now gone back to Charlton Athletic after striking 10 goals in all competitions for Wimbledon and he believes his overall game has improved considerably since he joined on loan in August. Visit
A total of 619 Wimbledon fans watched the 1-0 defeat at Dagenham yesterday and Michael paid tribute to their support since his arrival at the club.
“The fans here have been outstanding all season,” said the Newcastle-born striker. “They have followed us wherever we have gone and the fans are a massive plus. It’s a shame that we could not get a result for them today. They just need to keep getting behind the lads like they have all season. I wish to thank them for all the positive messages. Every fan I have met has had something nice to say to me. It’s such a fan-orientated club.”
Michael will go back to Charlton Athletic now intent on proving himself with the Championship club after banging in the goals at League 2 level.
“I am a bit disappointed to bow out in that manner and all the boys are devastated in there,” Michael added. “The loan spell could not have gone better really. My game has come on in leaps and bounds. The coaching staff have been different class for me and I would definitely not rule it out (coming back). We have massively underachieved and we should be much higher in the table. I think there will be a turning point though and the boys will kick on.”
Neal Ardley would certainly welcome Michael back if the opportunity arose again and the Wimbledon manager believes that the player has made great strides during his loan spell.
“Michael has been brilliant,” said Neal. “The lad who walked in the door here and the lad going back to Charlton are two totally different players. Mentally, physically and tactically he has improved. Fingers-crossed, we may get him back, but I think that Charlton will want to have a look at him now. He is a good lad and he deserves all the success he’s going to get.”
Dons Player subscribers can watch the full video interview with Michael Smith on our premium site, along with Neal Ardley’s post-match reaction after Dagenham.