Bayo Akinfenwa has apologised to AFC Wimbledon supporters for delaying his decision to sign a new contract.

The Beast ended speculation over his future by putting pen to paper on an improved deal at Kingsmeadow this afternoon.

Dons boss Neal Ardley had warned fans the situation could become a saga as the popular striker considered his options while on holiday in the United States.

Akinfenwa spoke with a number of MLS clubs about hopping across the pond next season but eventually decided to remain in League Two at Wimbledon.

He told Dons Player: “There was a lot of interest in me, but that was not the sole reason for me going to America. It was also about my brand and shooting a documentary.

“I met with a couple of clubs in America and there was also interest from League 1 and League 2 clubs. I even got a call from a club as I was driving in here today.

Bayo Akinfenwa's roller-coaster season in pictures:

“As a player you can only feel blessed that there are people interested in your services, but my heart has always been with AFC Wimbledon.

“I think I have to apologise for making the fans wait for me to sign. I had to take a few things into consideration, but in my heart of hearts I always thought this was where I would end up."

Akinfenwa’s original Wimbledon deal contained a break clause which the striker could activate if promotion to League One was not secured in his debut season.

That became a reality as the Dons fell some way short of the play-offs and the Beast reckons the team has more potential than they showed last term.

He added: “I think we underachieved with the squad that we had last season, but it was still progression as we got the highest points total since the club was reformed.

“Last season we never got to achieve what we wanted, but hopefully by the grace of God we will next season and get closer to the play-offs.

“The manager was the number one reason why I came here first time around, but second time around the love from the fans and the players came into the equation.”

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