Darius Charles is defying the aches and pains associated with a long-term injury lay-off in AFC Wimbledon’s cause, according to boss Neal Ardley.
The Burton Albion loanee was solidity personified in Saturday’s 2-1 win at Wycombe Wanderers in what was still only his third full game since returning from 13 months on the side-lines with serious leg injuries.
Ardley believes the courage and class of the central defender are carrying him through Dons’ quest for a playoff spot, despite him being some way short of full fitness.
“Darius is still not 100 per cent and I don’t think he will be until he gets to the summer and can get a little bit of rest time in there,” he said
“But he is a character and a brave lad who will play through anything.”
Wycombe Wanderers 1-2 AFC Wimbledon in pictures:
Charles resumed his partnership with Paul Robinson at the heart of the Dons’ rear-guard for the win Adams Park after the former Millwall man returned from the thigh problem which kept him out of defeat at Hartlepool.
Ardley is crossing his fingers he can keep the experienced pair in harness for the remainder of the campaign.
“He and Robbo are a good partnership,” he added.
“So if we can we want to keep them in there for the last seven games.”
The countdown begins with the long trip to Home Park on Saturday to face fellow promotion hopefuls Plymouth.
