Recovering from a setback is part of a young professional’s development and that’s what three of our promising players are currently working on.
As reported previously, forward Paris Lock suffered a groin injury in training. Unfortunately, though, it’s worse than first thought and Paris is due to have an operation.
The first-year professional made his debut in the EFL Trophy group game against League One Stevenage at the Cherry Red Records Stadium in September, when he came on as a substitute. Paris went on to impress whilst on loan at National League South clubs Dover Athletic and Tonbridge Angels.
Although he's likely to miss the rest of this campaign, it’s hoped Paris will be back for pre-season.
Everyone at AFC Wimbledon wishes Paris all the best with his recovery.
Attacking midfielder Morgan Williams is currently out of action with a back injury. The Welsh under-19 international is working to get back before the end of the season.
“Morgs”, who made his league debut as a substitute at Grimsby in the last game of last season, caught the eye when Johnnie Jackson gave him his full debut against Chelsea in the Carabao Cup at Stamford Bridge at the end of August.
Having also signed his first pro deal last summer, he followed up successful loan spells previously with Corinthian-Casuals and Eastbourne Borough by making an immediate impact with National League side Woking. Morgs won the Player of the Month award at the Cardinals, soon after joining them in October.
More immediately, there’s better news concerning defender Ben Mason.
Ben helped Basingstoke Town to a treble, when he went on loan to the non-league club for all of last season. He also earned the Nigel Higgs Award for personal development both on and off the pitch, for his efforts with AFC Wimbledon.
This season, Ben earned praise whilst on loan to Braintree Town for the first half of the campaign. Having switched to National League South rivals Farnborough last month, we’d stated that Ben was unfortunate to pick up a hamstring injury in a friendly.
However, Ben is pleased to report: “I’m now doing more fitness work and working really hard on that. I’m progressing well, feeling stronger each day and working on all areas.”
Action photos: Ian Stephen (Pro Sports Images).