AFC Wimbledon manager Johnnie Jackson has explained why he decided to sign former Millwall keeper Ryan Sandford on a one-month loan.
Sandford came through the ranks at The Den but was released in the summer, since when he has been training as a free agent with the Dons.
Today Jackson took the decision to officially make him a Wimbledon player for the next month with Nik Tzanev currently with the New Zealand squad.
That means Sandford, 24, will act as understudy to regular stopper Alex Bass and he can expect to find himself named on the bench for tomorrow’s Plough Lane meeting with Bradford City.
Jackson told afcwimbledon.co.uk: “Ryan has shown the necessary qualities that he needs to while working with us.
“He’s been a joy to have around.
“The situation arose with Nik Tzanev being away on international duty and we felt we’d have left ourselves a little bit light if we didn’t add cover in that position.”
Sandford will continue to work alongside Bass at the training ground under the watchful eye of goalkeeping coach Ashley Bayes.
He explained: “We felt we needed a bit more experience, what with Tans away, and it was a no-brainer to get it over the line.
“We’re delighted to have him on board.
“He’s a good, solid shot-stopper. He’s got a great personality and character and he’ll add to the group, which is really pleasing.
“I knew of Ryan and he asked if he could come in and train with us and he’s been around the group for quite a while now.
“He’s settled in, he knows the club and what’s expected of him. He was in and around Millwall’s first team.
“Although he didn’t play for them, he’s worked with some good, quality goalkeepers and he just blends into our group.”
