LEWIS Ward is looking forward to an “exciting challenge” after signing a one-year deal with AFC Wimbledon.
Ward, 27, was available on a free transfer after leaving Charlton Athletic this summer.
Prior to his move to the Valley last January, Ward played in League Two for Swindon Town, Sutton United, Exeter City and Forest Green Rovers.
“It’s an exciting challenge to come into,” Ward said on Wimbledon’s website. “You want to have healthy competition between two goalkeepers who are pushing each other and working hard to win the shirt. Hopefully whoever comes in next can help to strengthen the group and we can drive each other on.
“It’s no good being a nine out of 10 one week and a one the next, you need to be a calm, steady keeper that provides a presence behind the back four – that’s what I want to be here at Wimbledon. I want to be consistent.”
Dons boss Johnnie Jackson said: “Lewis is an experienced goalkeeper who has been there and done it in League Two. He gives us a commanding figure that helps us to fill that space that we’ve had in the goalkeeping department.
“It was important that we got the right keeper tied down quickly. He’s out here in Spain and he’s shown a real willingness to crack on, show what he can do and compete to become our number one”
Head of football operations Craig Cope added: “We’re pleased to add a player of Lewis’ experience to our squad. He comes highly recommended to us as a goalkeeper who knows what’s required to be successful at this level. He’s already settling in well and proving to be an important member of the team.”
