Defender's farewell message
Alan Bennett says that he’s left behind a club in great shape for the future after an encouraging season for young prospects coming through.
The experienced defender bid an emotional farewell to Wimbledon on Saturday with supporters giving him a great send off and the goodbye messages from fans continued on social media over the weekend.
channel , Alan said that there are exciting times ahead for supporters of the club.You TubeDuring an extended interview with Rob Cornell, which is now available on our official
With academy products Will Nightingale, Tom Beere and Ben Harrison having all played first-team football this season, Alan believes the future is bright.
“There is a really good crop of youngsters coming through at Wimbledon and it was no problem for me in helping them out,” said Alan. “A lot of work has gone on behind the scenes at the club to bring young players through. It’s an important factor at this club that they need to continue. In terms of the squad I’m leaving behind it is young, enthusiastic and energetic.
“It’s changed a lot since the start of this season. The manager has made his decision about the way he wants to go and that’s his job. I wish them all the best and they know that. I hope the group fulfils the potential that I know it has.”
Alan added that it was a real privilege to leave the club in such circumstances on Saturday.
“Erik Samuelson asked if I wanted to come to the game on Saturday and I felt l was representing those lads who perhaps did not quite get to say the goodbyes that they deserved. I feel I played a part in keeping the club up, but players like Jack Midson and Luke Moore had a lot more chapters at the club than I did.
“It’s sad for me to leave, but finishing my playing career at my hometown club Cork City is something I’ve always wanted to do.”
Alan is due to play for Cork in their pre-season friendly against Wexford Youths on Wednesday and all at AFC Wimbledon wish him every success at his new club.
The above picture was taken by Paul Willatts.