By Chris Slavin
Jon Meades can't wait to play a part in what promises to be an exciting next chapter of the AFC Wimbledon story after making his debut for the club back in 2012.
With his first spell here having come back in 2012/13 when he helped the Dons to a dramatic final-day survival in League 2, the popular left-back has seen plenty of changes at AFC Wimbledon.
Speaking after signing a new contract at the club, Jon said: "There have been a huge amount of changes around the club (since 2012). Everything about it has come on in leaps and bounds: the players, staff, and the training ground. It has been fantastic and a great journey so far, but there is still more to come. The news about Plough Lane last season was magnificent for the club. Everyone hopes we can stay in the league and progress so that there is a smooth transition to Plough Lane.
"James Hanson is a great signing for the club. The season before last he scored in the last minute against us (for Bradford). He is a big handful up there, so hopefully he can score a few goals for us next season. I am sure there will be a few more boys coming in for next season, which is exciting, and the squad is really starting to take shape now."
See the link above for Jon's full interview on our iFollow channel.
At the age of 26, Jon is now willing to take responsibility for helping younger members of the squad through tough times and he is determined to keep progressing in his own game too.
"I remember not long ago that I was one of the younger players trying to make my way in the game, but I have a fair number of appearances under my belt now. I would like to think that I can pass on some advice to the younger lads, to provide that bit of experience when I can. Left-back is my best position at the moment and I want to nail down that even more and keep progressing as much as I can. I do still have that versatility though of being able to play in a few positions."
Having ended last season strongly with two important strikes against Oxford United and Oldham, Jon is eager to chip in with more goals, though he admits his celebrations need a bit of work.
"If the goals keep coming I think I will have to work a bit on a better celebration! I've got a target for next season, which I'm going to try and hit. It is important as I don't think as defenders we chipped in with enough goals. I really want to try and get the biggest tally I've ever had next season."
To view a short clip of Jon's interview, click on the link below.