AFC Wimbledon sign Chelsea right-back Henry Lawrence on loan

AFC Wimbledon have signed Henry Lawrence on loan from Chelsea.

The right-back, 19, is the Dons’ seventh addition of the summer transfer window.

Lawrence, who joined Chelsea at U9 level, has played for England at U20 level and is contracted to the west London club until the summer of 2023.

“I’ve been in the 23s for two years and now is the right time to get a good amount of games in men’s football,” said Lawrence, who was born in South London. “The best moments I’ve had are when I scored at Stamford Bridge against Brighton in the U23s and my England debut against Belgium.

“I’ve had two quite bad injuries in my younger years, but when that happens you can’t look down – you have to come back better and stronger.”

James Simmonds, who is employed by Chelsea but on a secondment as first-team coach at Wimbledon, said: “I know Henry since he was knee-high. I coached him at U12s, U15s and 18s – very exciting player. He’s a good full-back, defensively and attacking, he’ll certainly add to the squad.

“I know there were some big clubs after him. I’m sure he will flourish.

“He’s versatile, that’s one of his strengths. He can play in midfield and he’s comfortable on both feet. Depending what formation we play, he can go to outside centre-half if we go to a back three.”