Glyn Hodges has made a key addition to the midfield engine room in plenty of time for next season by signing 27-year-old midfielder Alex Woodyard.
Alex, who left Peterborough earlier this summer after ending last season on loan at Tranmere Rovers, will bring plenty of experience to Wimbledon’s squad. As well as bolstering our midfield with his talents in the centre of the park, our manager believes he will help his younger team-mates to thrive.
Speaking about the signing, Glyn said: “Alex went to Tranmere in January and kick-started their season. Their good form was obviously helped by his performances, so he was another player who we spoke to and hoped that we could get. Thankfully, he agreed to come and we are delighted that he has come on board. He is a very experienced midfielder who knows the league and he is a high performer in the division. We are hoping that some of the younger ones around him – Anthony Hartigan, ‘Rudi’, and Nesta – will progress thanks to his influence. Alex will add a lot of experience for us.”
After a spell during his youth with Charlton Athletic, Alex joined Southend United as a 16-year-old and he made eight league appearances for The Shrimpers. However, he had to reignite his career in non league after leaving Southend with stints at Dartford, Concord Rangers, and Braintree Town. When Danny Cowley left Braintree Town for Lincoln City he was quick to bring Alex with him. That led to a fantastic spell with the Imps that included promotion to the Football League and a remarkable FA Cup run in 2016/17 that ended with a quarter-final defeat at Arsenal. His fine midfield displays attracted interest from Peterborough United and he has made over 50 league appearances for Posh since joining them in 2018.
Alex has become renowned for his determination, ability to break up the play, and energy to get up and down the pitch. These are characteristics that Alex aims to bring to Wimbledon’s midfield and he’s excited by the prospect of playing at our new stadium.
“I am an all-energy midfielder who likes to get up and down the park,” said Alex. “I like to win tackles and keep the ball moving for the team. I just try to be all-action and energetic. Hopefully, the fans can see my hard work and enjoy my performances.
“After speaking to the gaffer, hearing about what his plans are for the club, and also with the new stadium, it’s an exciting time to be with AFC Wimbledon. I am glad it’s done now, I’m happy to be here, and I can’t wait to get the season going.”
Look out on our social media channels soon for an extensive interview with Alex.