‘It’s going to change his life’ – Johnnie Jackson on Ayoub Assal’s AFC Wimbledon departure after Al-Wakrah move confirmed

Johnnie Jackson says Ayoub Assal’s move to Qatari side Al-Wakrah will change the forward’s life.

The 21-year-old completed his switch to the Qatar Stars League after Al-Wakrah trigged his release clause. The deal, which was completed on Friday, was a club-record transfer fee received in the AFC Wimbledon era.

Academy graduate Assal, who had 18 months left to go on his deal, scored 24 goals and recorded 13 assists during his 97 appearances for the Dons.

Our paper understands that the Dons will receive north of £1million for Assal, who signed a five-year deal with Al-Wakrah.

“It’s a fantastic opportunity for the boy,” said Jackson after Wimbledon’s 1-0 win over Stockport on Saturday.

“It’s going to change his life – I’m sure you know what I’m talking about.

“We’re really disappointed to have lost a player of that calibre.

“I loved working with him – I really enjoyed it.

“The football club deserves a huge credit for developing him through the academy, along with the people who played their part in that.

“We really helped to take his game to the next level this season – it’s culminated in him getting a move.

“That’s what happens unfortunately at this level. You do lose your best players – people come and make them offers which are obviously head-turners.

“Good luck to the boy. He leaves with fond wishes and I really hope he goes and does well.”