Transfer update: AFC Wimbledon boss Ardley still chasing seven more signings

BY SAM SMITH

Neal Ardley would like at least seven more signings for AFC Wimbledon this summer, having already brought in three players. 

Two of the new additions – Mitch Pinnock and Tom King – took part in the South Londoners’ 4-2 victory against Reading on Saturday. 

However, striker James Hanson picked up an injury prior to the game – and Ardley offered an update on the former Bradford man’s progress. 

Ardley said: “A lot [of signings] need to be in the pipeline. We’re in the market for at least another seven players. 

“If we can get those over the line then great, normally we would have done one or two more by now by we’re pushing for the right players, some of those will take longer. I was worried going into Saturday’s game because we were a bit light with people like Anthony Hartigan and James Hanson out but there were some positive signs – we just need to keep it going. 

“We’re not sure on Hanson’s injury. At the moment it might be another couple of weeks at least. He strained his groin in one of the sessions – it happens sometimes. But once we get him back we’re going to make sure he’s really ready.”

Pinnock – a versatile midfielder signed from non-league Dartford Athletic – was excellent in the victory over the Royals. The former England C international played on the right of a four-man midfield and had a hand in both of Wimbledon’s first-half goals with pinpoint set-pieces. 

Ardley added: “[Pinnock fitted in] brilliantly. We really like Mitch. We’re looking to add more players in the wide areas so that we have good competition. 

“Mitch has some really good qualities and he showed them (against Reading). He was at the heart of a lot of our good stuff.”