Karleigh Osborne won’t be returning to AFC Wimbledon next season after joining Connor Smith at Plymouth Argyle.

The former Brentford defender was released by Bristol City at the end of the season and had been a free agent.

Osborne had been on loan at Wimbledon last term before a serious knee injury ended his campaign in February as Neal Ardley’s side went on to win promotion.

They defeated Osborne’s new side to reach League One at Wembley and the centre-half joined in with the celebrations under the arch in north west London.

Osborne has been training with AFC Wimbledon’s fitness coach this month, leading to speculation he could return to the club after recovering from his knee problem.

However, the 28-year-old has today committed himself to Argyle and will link up with Smith at Home Park in 2016/17.

Celebration: Karleigh Osborne

It means Ardley will need to look elsewhere for defensive recruits if he wants to add to his backline.

Darius Charles has already made his successful loan spell permanent to continue his partnership with Paul Robinson.

Ryan Sweeney offers a youthful but certainly talented option, having been linked with Premier League clubs before signing a new contract, and provides further competition.

However, the Dons manager has confirmed he intends to bring in five more signings this summer and a new man at the back is likely to be on his shopping list.

Read More: Take a look at Neal Ardley's AFC Wimbledon shopping list.

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