Former Walsall midfielder Romaine Sawyers has returned to football after signing a short-term deal with League Two side AFC Wimbledon.
The 33-year-old has joined the Dons on a one-month contract, which will run until January 4, providing him with an opportunity to re-establish himself in the Football League.
A Journey Back to Football
Sawyers had been a free agent since being released by Cardiff City in the summer. His career began at West Brom’s academy, where he spent six years before being released. Sawyers then went on to make his mark in the Football League, first at Walsall, where he played over 150 games, and later at Brentford, where he became a key player.
He returned to West Brom in 2019 when they paid £2.9 million to bring him back to The Hawthorns. Under Slaven Bilic, Sawyers played an integral role in Albion’s promotion to the Premier League in the 2019/20 season, making 43 appearances and contributing to the club’s successful campaign. He also featured in 19 Premier League matches the following season, although the club was relegated. Sawyers made a total of 64 appearances for West Brom and scored once.
However, Sawyers fell out of favour under new manager Valerien Ismael, who deemed him surplus to requirements. He was loaned out to Championship side Stoke City and, after his contract ended in 2022, moved to Cardiff City before his recent switch to AFC Wimbledon.
New Challenge at AFC Wimbledon
Sawyers now embarks on a fresh challenge with AFC Wimbledon, managed by former Charlton Athletic boss Johnnie Jackson. The Dons are currently in eighth place in League Two, and Sawyers’ experience will be invaluable as they aim to push for promotion. His short-term deal provides him with an opportunity to showcase his abilities and possibly secure a longer-term contract if his performances impress.
The signing of Sawyers adds depth to AFC Wimbledon’s midfield and gives the 33-year-old a chance to make his mark at a new club in the Football League, after several years in the higher divisions.
Writer’s View
Romaine Sawyers’ return to football with AFC Wimbledon is a positive move for both the player and the club. While his time in the Premier League and Championship has seen ups and downs, this short-term deal offers Sawyers a platform to prove his worth once again. His wealth of experience could be just what Wimbledon need to climb up the League Two table, and it’s a promising opportunity for the midfielder to make a significant impact at a new club.
Founder of The Real EFL, Gary is a passionate Lincoln City fan with extensive content creation across the Championship and EFL. He also shares expert football betting tips.
