Having racked up north of 200 games as a player and led us back to Plough Lane as manager in 2020, Glyn Hodges has a connection with Wimbledon that will never fade away.
Making the journey down Haydon’s Road became a regular occurrence during his 10-year association with our club but this weekend’s visit will have a different feel – with Glyn set to stand in the opposing dugout for the first time as Bradford City come to town.
Ahead of this weekend’s fixture we caught up with the man himself as he discussed a return to his roots, life up north and more.
RETURNING TO PLOUGH LANE
I never got to see the stadium full because of covid. Wimbledon are on a good run, so I’m expecting to see a big gate for the game and I’m sure we’ll bring a lot of fans down as well. I’m excited to see Plough Lane packed so that I can sample the atmosphere for the first time. I’m sure it’ll be magnificent.
My focus will be on the match itself but I spent 10 years at Wimbledon, it naturally has a special place in my heart, it always will. I’d like to get a positive result for Bradford but Wimbledon fans won’t want to hear that!
BEING DONS BOSS
First and foremost it was an honour to be the manager but it was also one of the toughest times to be at the helm. The budget was tight, we had to deal with playing at QPR before the stadium was ready – however I always gave it my all. From stepping through the door as assistant to Wally (Downes) to sustaining our position in League One, I’m pleased with what we achieved over that period.
LIFE AT BRADFORD
It’s a similar club to Wimbledon. Everyone is pulling in the right direction and wants each other to do well. Our secretary and commercial manager were on the pitch last night to help with the forking – it reminded me of the volunteers that help out at Wimbledon.
The fanbase is big and we’re having a decent season so far. I think we’ve got a squad that can challenge at the top end of the table.
My family are based up north, so it was difficult to be away from them for so long at Wimbledon. It was nice to take a break from things and then dip my toes back in with Doncaster Rovers. I then had a phone call out of the blue to join Bradford – it’s nice to still be involved at my age!
THE CLASS OF 2022/23
I think Johnnie (Jackson) has done really well. He went through a sticky patch up until you visited Valley Parade and on that occasion we were lucky to get a point. The team has gone from strength to strength ever since – it’s organised, there’s some good players in there and they bring plenty of energy. It’s a typical Wimbledon side, they can beat anyone on their day.
The Dons face Bradford on Saturday with tickets still available for this high-demand clash.
Buy now from our online ticket shop.
PICS: Pro Sports Images