More from the manager after deadline day swoop
Neal Ardley said that the acquisition of Tom Soares is a sign of how far AFC Wimbledon has progressed and he believes his arrival can rejuvenate the squad.
The manager was delighted to bring in a player who once graced the Premier League with his midfield experience expected to be a useful asset for the last 19 League One games.
Speaking during an interview for Dons Player, Neal said: “Being where we are in the league helps (to attract players). Players often look at what you have already got at the club so that is credit to the players here. Maybe how we played in those games against Bury made Tom realise how effective we could be. He is a Reading boy too and his family are from down this way. It’s always nice at his age to come back home from up north. When you put it all together, it fits perfectly for all parties.
“It is a boost for everybody and to the squad. We’ve had a tough couple of weeks. I know we had a free weekend, but it was not something we wanted. We have to set some targets and go again until the end of the season. Sometimes you need that fresh face to come in because it gives everybody a lift. Everyone will be looking over their shoulders and wondering where they are going to fit in. That’s what we need. We need the training to go up again and we want everyone to start pushing hard to get the results we want.”
interview with Tom Soares.Dons PlayerClick on the link above to watch a clip of our
Full interviews with Tom and Neal Ardley are on our premium channel.