Luke Jenkins and Kwaku Frimpong feel they can only benefit from Johnnie Jackson’s two summer signings, as they bid to earn a place in his plans this season.
Our new manager has added vastly experienced defenders Alex Pearce and Chris Gunter to the squad in this window, and the Dons youngsters are relishing the prospect of working with them.
“Alex Pearce has been very good since he’s come in,” said Kwaku. “He’s experienced, very vocal and talks to everyone. He’s been good with the young lads and all of the players, so those sorts of signings will definitely be good for the team.”
“When you see a signing like Chris Gunter come through the door, you can only look to learn from them and grasp whatever you can,” said Luke. “They’re only going to be a positive impact on yourself. Pearcy is very experienced. What I’ve learnt from him so far, having played with him last weekend, you can just see how he plays the game, and I can’t wait to learn even more from him for as long as I possibly can.”
Both Luke and Kwaku had highs and lows as first year professionals last season. Having been members of our successful Academy side that won the Youth Alliance Cup at Rotherham over eighteen months ago, they then went on to sign their first contracts with the Dons last July.
Since then, the promising duo have both suffered injuries, but they’ve also enjoyed the experience of playing regular first team football while out on loan. Defender Luke was part of a Tonbridge Angels side that went on a run in the FA Trophy, while midfielder Kwaku had a strong finish to the season at Carshalton Athletic.
Our cameras were on the training pitch this morning as Luke, Kwaku and defender Will Nightingale stepped up their fitness under the guidance of our Head of Sports Science Chris McConnell.
Listen to our catch up with Kwaku Frimpong and Luke Jenkins below, via the link to our official YouTube channel.