Extended highlights and reaction after win against Plymouth
Tom Beere said that the manager’s decision not to send him out on loan helped spark his recent run in the AFC Wimbledon first-team.
The academy product played a pivotal part in two Dons victories in four days after last night’s Checkatrade Trophy win against Plymouth, but it all could have been so different.
Speaking to Rob Cornell for Dons Player, Tom said: “The manager said in an interview about me going out on loan, but that he wanted me to stay. I think that gave me the confidence in knowing that he wants me here as part of the team. I took that as me not being a squad player and that I could push for the starting 11. In training with the GPS monitors I have to make sure I am working harder than anyone.
“I want to try and keep my place, but whether I’m on the bench, starting, or coming on, I want to play my part for the team. Even if I’m not playing, I will play against the first 11 in training and play a part. We want to stay unbeaten and keep our run going.”
It was a proud night for the academy last night with Will Nightingale starring at the back and Alfie Egan making his debut. Tom was particularly pleased for Alfie, who made his name last season with his superb goalscoring exploits during the club’s FA Youth Cup run.
“Alfie is a good player,” said Tom. “He got goals for the Under-18s, he’s been getting goals for the Under-21s, and hopefully he can bring that up to our level now. Alfie did not look out of place. Will is the nicest guy off the pitch, but you don’t want to play against him on it. He gives 100 per cent all of the time.
“As a team we upped our tempo in the second-half and I don’t think Plymouth could handle it. It was a great bit of skill by Lyle Taylor to set-up the second goal and we are in good form at the moment.”
Extended highlights from last night’s win are on Dons Player, along with interviews with Tom and Neal Ardley.