After finishing in the top half of the fourth division in the 2023–2024 season, AFC Wimbledon will play football in League Two again the following season.
The Dons, who were coached by former Charlton Athletic manager Johnnie Jackson, finished in 10th place, five points out of the play-off spots.
Sutton United is one team that won’t be in League Two or the EFL the following season. Despite their best efforts, they were unable to secure a spot in the playoffs and finished third, three points behind Colchester United.
AFC Wimbledon is reportedly showing interest in one of its players.
According to the South London Press, Harry Smith, a striker, is being considered by the Dons for the summer. The 28-year-old has drawn interest from a number of teams as a result of his outstanding performances for a failing team.
In 42 appearances in all competitions, Smith recorded 14 goals and 5 assists. He also led the team in captaincy multiple times.
Remaining in the EFL?
Relegated teams tend to lose their best players, and it appears that Sutton United will be one of those teams.
Since the switch from the National League to the Football League is quite significant, Smith should be one of the players who is determined to stay in England’s top four divisions.
With his track record of EFL goals, he has established himself as a vital member of a failing side, thus it’s understandable that teams like AFC Wimbledon are eager to sign him for the upcoming summer.
You have to assume that Smith will be the one to depart Sutton for the Football League if any player does. Though there are other people who are also interested in him, only time will tell where he ends up.
Looking to next season
AFC Wimbledon needs to focus on earning a play-off spot for the following season, even though they have work to do over the summer. They proved this season that they are capable of competing for the top seven, and they can definitely close the gap the next year if they make the correct acquisitions.
With some formidable League Two teams moving on, Jackson’s group is even stronger this year, thus the Dons have reason to aspire for a shot at promotion.
Their prospects of returning to League One will only increase with the addition of Smith, so it will be interesting to watch if this interest materialises and who else the club has on its transfer radar.
