FOLLOW US ON TWITTER | FACEBOOK
Harry Forrester insists AFC Wimbledon and parent team Rangers are similar clubs – because they have both had to start at the bottom.
The attacking midfielder sealed a season-long loan to the English League One side on Wednesday after falling out of favour under Pedro Caixinha at Ibrox.
Forrester helped Rangers seal their return to the Premiership after joining from Doncaster in January 2016, with the Govan club having had to start at the lowest rung of Scottish football in 2012 following liquidation.
AFC Wimbledon have battled their way through the English ranks after being founded in 2002 in the wake of Wimbledon’s controversial move to Milton Keynes, where they became MK Dons.
Forrester insists both teams share a similar story with their rise through the divisions, but admits there is a huge gulf in the size of the respective clubs.
He said: “The AFC Wimbledon story is a unique one. In some ways it’s similar to the Rangers one – having to start from the bottom and work you’re way up.
“Like Rangers, they’ve done the same thing. I think it builds character for the squad itself and the club and hopefully the future is bright.
“It’s a lot of different to Glasgow Rangers obviously. Rangers have got a huge fan base and Glasgow is a goldfish bowl, and you’re looked on wherever you go.
“Here, it’s a bit smaller and bit more like a family club, which I like. I’ve played at Brentford before – which is like that – so it’s something I’m familiar with and I’m looking forward to.”
Forrester could make his debut in tomorrow’s clash with former club Doncaster and is keen to get going after being frozen out by Caixinha.
Speaking to afcwimbledon.co.uk, he added: “I think it’s a win-win situation. I got a call expressing AFC Wimbledon’s interest and I was desperate to go out and play.
“I think it’s a good step for me and the club is going in the right direction and the manager here wants to achieve things this year.
“I spoke to the manager Neal Ardley and Neil Cox and they’ve got clear plans for the club.
“My agent spoke highly of the manager before I signed and after meeting him it’s clear what he wants to achieve.”
