Bayo Akinfenwa has delivered a passionate appeal to support former Wimbledon academy player Antonio Walker.
A memorial match is being held on Thursday 3 October (7.30 pm kick-off) at Whyteleafe FC with former Dons academy players taking on a team from the host club, where Antonio currently plays.
Speaking ahead of the game, former Dons striker Bayo (pictured scoring in the FA Cup tie versus Liverpool) said: "A few days ago I was informed about the tragic loss of Antonio Walker's mother. Antonio was a young player at Wimbledon when I was there. Last month on his way to a game his mother had a heart attack and passed away. She was the sole provider for Antonio and his brother. AFC Wimbledon are putting on a game to help out at this difficult time. In life we all need help at some time and my prayers go to Antonio and his family. Please give what you can to this great cause."
A JustGiving page has been set-up to help Antonio after the death of his mother Angelina and you can help by visiting the web page set-up by our Academy Manager Michael Hamilton.
Alfie Egan, Seanan McKillop, Reece Williams-Bowers, Nathan Wood, Dan Ano, Louie Cockle, and Jason Stripp are among those pencilled in to take on BetVictor South Eastern Division side Whyteleafe.
Wimbledon supporters will remember the fine achievements from 2016 and 2017 when the young Dons reached the last-16 of the FA Youth Cup in two successive seasons. In the first of those two years, Wimbledon knocked out Watford and Newcastle, before bowing out to eventual winners Chelsea in front of over 3,000 spectators at the Cherry Red Records Stadium.
The address for Thursday's game is as follows: Church Lane, Whyteleafe, CR3 0AR, Surrey.