Paul Robinson’s last few weeks at AFC Wimbledon have marked one of the darker periods in his long football career.

His boss Neal Ardley revealed he turned counsellor to several of his players last week as they continued to suffer a hangover from their recent FA Cup exit to non-league Sutton.

Former Millwall legend Robinson was sent off early in the replay of that tie.

He admits it has taken some time to bounce back from a loss he felt a keen sense of responsibility for, but in the end the only solution is to strap the boots on, get back out and play.

Adapting: Paul Robinson (L)

“Once we were out of the FA Cup I think we took it hard and I took it harder than anyone as it was a tough night, especially seeing Sutton got Arsenal in a future round,” he said.

“I’ve never played against them and I’m not getting any younger.

“It was a night when I felt I’d let down the club who have been good to me. But these things happen in football and what was important for me was to go back on the training pitch, get back to work and to doing what I love.”

Robinson is expected to be at the heart of the Dons rear-guard again tonight when they entertain League One basement boys Coventry.

Keep up to date with the latest news in west London via the freegetwestlondonapp. You can even set it to receive push notifications for all the breaking news in your area.

Available to download from the App Store or Google Play for Android now!