Tough-tackling full-back agrees to join
We are delighted to announce that experienced right-back Barry Fuller has this afternoon agreed to join AFC Wimbledon.
On a busy day of transfer activity at the Cherry Red Records Stadium, the 28-year-old former Barnet and Gillingham defender became manager Neal Ardley’s second close season acquisition.
Having captained Gillingham to promotion in 2009 and previously played a part in the rise of Stevenage with his tough-tackling, all-action style, the Wimbledon manager says that Barry has the right profile for improving his squad.
“We were really surprised when Barry became available,” said Neal. “We liked him when we first played against Barnet last season because he caused us problems. We talked about him afterwards and said that he was the sort of character and player that we wanted at this club. When he became available we were delighted and we quickly jumped at the chance to meet with Barry and his Dad on Friday.
“We sold our vision, our methods, and what we are trying to do with this club and Barry was really taken with that. Over the weekend we worked hard to get the deal right. I think our fans will love the fact that he is an absolute 100 per cent player. Barry has quality, but he is also a really good athlete who likes a tackle. He has been captain at clubs and he demands hard work from those players around him. I think he will fit into exactly what we are trying to do here.”
Barry, who hails from Ashford, Kent, knows all about AFC Wimbledon because he is best friends with Danny Kedwell and he was impressed with the Dons during his time at Barnet last season. Though Barry was suspended when the Bees won 1-0 here on 1 April, he admired the club’s support during an occasion that was designated as We Are Wimbledon Day.
“I have heard a lot of good things about AFC Wimbledon because I am best friends with Danny Kedwell,” Barry said. “Everybody knows about how the club has come through the leagues and I want to play a part in helping Wimbledon take another step. Danny spoke so highly about the club, including how good the fans are and the atmosphere around the place.
“Funnily enough, I sat in the crowd with the Wimbledon fans when Barnet played here and the atmosphere was unbelievable. I cannot wait for my first match for Wimbledon and to sample that for myself.”
Barry tasted FA Trophy glory in the first competitive match to be played at the new Wembley in 2007 when Stevenage beat Kidderminster 3-2 and he completed a notable Wembley double by helping Gillingham to promotion in the League 2 play-off final at the same venue.
Dons Player subscribers can watch a full video interview with Barry Fuller on our premium site tomorrow.