Bayo Akinfewa deserves a few days off after clocking up the miles with AFC Wimbledon, according to manager Neal Ardley .

The Dons have a clear week to prepare for Saturday’s trip to Exeter but have had a punishing run of midweek games since the start of February.

Playing at the weekends and then again on Tuesday nights has taken its toll on Ardley’s squad and Akinfenwa has started all five of Wimbledon’s most recent fixtures.

Boss: AFC Wimbledon manager Neal Ardley

However, the Beast hasn’t scored since his double to sink Newport County last month and it was two defenders who got the goals for the Dons against York on Saturday.

Akinfenwa, with his physical presence and ability to provide a link between midfield and attack, offers more than just goals though and his manager has been pleased with his contribution.

Ardley said: “Bayo Akinfenwa has played all five games in the last couple of weeks and he put in another great shift for us. He’d pivotal to what we do here.

Beast: Adebayo Akinfenwa

“When teams see his name on the team sheet they get worried. Whether he scores goals or he doesn’t score goals, he’s great for people to play off of.

“We need to make sure we manage him and his training programme because we need to try and keep him on that pitch for us. He’s important.”

Akinfenwa was an interested spectator at Anfield on Sunday as his beloved Reds were held in the FA Cup by Blackburn Rovers.