Swindon Town have re-signed goalkeeper Lewis Ward for a third spell, bringing the experienced shot-stopper back to the County Ground on a one-year deal.
The 28-year-old arrives following his departure from AFC Wimbledon and will offer vital depth and competition in Ian Holloway’s new-look squad.
Familiar Face Returns as Swindon Bolster Goalkeeping Ranks
Ward is no stranger to the Robins faithful, having made 27 appearances across two previous stints with the club. His most productive spell came during the 2021/22 campaign, where he featured 19 times and established himself as a dependable presence between the sticks. He returned briefly in the 2022/23 season, adding a further eight matches to his tally.
Now back for a third spell, the former Exeter City, Portsmouth, and Forest Green Rovers keeper will compete with new number one Connor Ripley for a place in the starting eleven. Last season, Ward featured primarily in the EFL Trophy for AFC Wimbledon, making four appearances before leaving the club this summer.
Speaking to Swindon’s official website, Ward said:
“I’m looking forward to being back. The opportunity just felt right to return. I had really good conversations with Steve Mildenhall over the off-season, came back in training with the group, and from the first conversation with the manager, everything just seemed to fit together.”
Ian Holloway continues to reshape the squad following his appointment earlier this summer, with Ward’s arrival adding further leadership and familiarity to the dressing room. The veteran goalkeeper joins a side aiming to improve on their disappointing 2024/25 League Two campaign, where they finished in the lower reaches of the table.
Ward brings not only experience but also a clear understanding of the environment and expectations at Swindon. His previous spells at the County Ground have earned him the trust of staff and fans alike, and his return will offer much-needed competition and cover in a key position.
Writer’s View
This is a sensible and low-risk addition for Swindon Town. Lewis Ward is a known quantity, and his bond with both the club and goalkeeping coach Steve Mildenhall clearly played a part in his return.
With Connor Ripley set to start the season as number one, Ward provides proven League Two depth and a steady hand if called upon. It’s another example of Ian Holloway leaning on experience as he looks to stabilise the squad ahead of what he hopes will be a more consistent campaign.
