AFC Wimbledon have surprised the footballing world this morning by appointing former player Wally Downes as their new manager, with another legend joining as his assistant in Glyn Hodges.
The Wombles have been without a manager since dispensing with the services of Neal Ardley, but they’ve pulled a rabbit out of the hat in bringing in Downes. The former Crazy Gang member has not managed in the UK for 14 years and even then, had only a short stint as boss at Brentford.
He’s been coaching in India, but has seemingly answered the call from his former club and returned to try to save them from relegation from League One.
Usually, an inexperienced manager or a former player can be an underwhelming appointment, but they do things differently at Wimbledon, they always have. This might be a new incarnation, but after having their soul ripped from them by Milton Keynes, they value things such as history and sentiment.
That is why the appointment has been largely met with a positive response. The odd voice of reason has cast doubts on the ability of the boss to do the job, but everyone seems behind him.
If they galvanise the club and get everyone in it together, maybe they can stay up.
Regardless of whether you like him or not. Get behind him and the boys. This is a long term appointmnet no matter what happens this season. Back the board, we know mistakes have been made but onwards and upwards #COYD
— Malcolm Brackley (@malcolmbrackley) December 4, 2018
Good luck Wal, great bloke and superb coach #WTID
— Gareth Graham (@gramper78) December 4, 2018
Welcome home Wally! Programme from 1978 of one his first youth team appearances. ‘The outstanding player on the field was Dons skipper-Wally Downes’. @AFCWimbledon pic.twitter.com/iXgQgNnaRd
— SW4-Womble (@SW4_Womble) December 4, 2018
https://twitter.com/2018Farlie/status/1069906920553758720
https://twitter.com/2018Farlie/status/1069906238660579328
Not sure he’s the right choice but I look forward to being proved wrong!
— James Rogers (@jimedal13) December 4, 2018
If Glyn Hodges can unleash that left foot wand into his coaching then we will be in a good place @guerillahendo
— Malcolm Brackley (@malcolmbrackley) December 4, 2018
The best news for ages and about time! A truly inspiring link to our golden age and a leader to unite and enthuse the whole club and fan-base again. This is an exciting turning point COYD 💛💙
— Gary Wilkes (@Gary_M_Wilkes) December 4, 2018
