Football Season Guide

Johnnie Jackson is fortunate to still be in a job after AFC Wimbledon recorded their lowest finish since returning to the EFL in 2011. The Dons are in a downward spiral and there have been precious signs of Jackson halting that slide. They enjoyed a purple patch around Christmas which ultimately saved them from a relegation battle. Those above him are not without blame and didn’t learn from a dreadful January transfer window in 2022. 12 months on and Jackson saw several key loan players recalled by their parent clubs, leaving him scratching around for replacements. The biggest loss however was talismanic young winger Ayoub Assal, who was sold for seven figures to Qatar-based Al Wakrah. There has only really been one notable departure so far this summer with midfielder Ethan Chislett moving up a division with Port Vale. Several additions have been made, but none really stand out. 2023 has so far been a miserable year for Dons fans, with striker Ali Al-Hamadi making a remarkable impact following his January move from Wycombe Wanderers. He notched ten goals in 18 appearances and caught the attention of several clubs in higher divisions. Keeping hold of him will be a priority for Jackson. The Dons have produced several exciting youngsters in recent seasons and the likes of goalkeeper Nathan Broome, wing-backs Huseyin Biler and Jack Currie are already expected to be key figures. Alex Woodyard will be hoping to improve on a disappointing campaign whilst Josh Davison needs to add goals to his game. Jackson cannot afford a bad start to the season with fans patience already having worn rather thin.