Johnnie Jackson believes AFC Wimbledon can come out of the current campaign in a better place in the wake of our 1-0 defeat to Grimsby Town.
Our season ended in disappointment as an Isaac Ogundere own goal saw us fall to a narrow loss on the road.
Despite some half chances and penalty shouts in the second period, our efforts frustratingly came to nothing – a familiar feeling that we will be looking to shake off as we head into 2023/24.
Here Johnnie provides his thoughts on the 90 minutes, Morgan Williams’ debut, an update on the fitness of Ali Al-Hamadi, and looks ahead to next season.
Listen to the full interview below.
ON THE LOSS
It sums our season up to be honest. It was a really close game that was decided by a freak goal. It was a major setback, but I think we competed really well. We had some good moments, but we lacked the quality required with our final pass and shot selection. We deserved something out of the game, and we should have had two penalties in the second-half.
ON MORGAN’S DEBUT
He’s an exciting talent. He’s versatile. He can play in a number of positions. Morgan is confident and he has a lot of energy about him. Out of possession, he can do the job that’s required. It’s funny how it works out – Saikou picked up an injury in the warm-up and we had to shuffle the pack. Getting Morgan on the pitch was the right thing to do - I’m delighted for him.
We have to continue to provide a pathway for the Academy lads to get into the first-team. We need to win whilst we’re doing it, that’s the challenge. It’s fantastic to see how the football club is developing players.
ON ALI’S INJURY
He’s got a tear in his plantar fascia. It’s not serious but he’s wearing a boot just to protect it. There was no way we were going to take any risks with him. He’s getting treatment, he’ll have a break, and he’ll be fine for pre-season.
ON THE SEASON
It's been a real learning curve for me as a manager and for the Club. What we know now, we didn’t know this time last year. We know more about the league and what is required. The challenge now is to get our recruitment right and address the problems we’ve had with injuries.
I’ve said it many times, the hurt and suffering we’ve been through can’t be for nothing. There’s been some harsh lessons learnt, but we all come out of it in a much better place.
ON THE FANS
It was an unbelievable turnout considering where we are in the league. They turned up and got behind the team. We showed our appreciation at the end. Their support has been the one constant this season. I just want to say a big thank you.
PICS: Ian Stephen (Pro Sports Images)