Darren Jones has snubbed AFC Wimbledon’s offer of a new contract and opted for a return to Newport County.

The Welshman was one of four out-of-contract players boss Neal Ardley had hoped to keep for next season but Jones has today signed for Justin Edinburgh’s Exiles.

Jones previously played for his hometown club in 2004 before being jailed for two months for an assault outside a Newport nightclub in November 2005.

He was released by Shrewsbury in January and ended last season as part of AFC Wimbledon’s defence, making a good impression on Ardley and his coaching staff.

On his way: Darren Jones

Exiles manager Edinburgh said: “I wanted to provide quality and depth to the defence and midfield as we are strong at present with attacking options.

“It is great to get targets I have been following for a while and the squad is shaping up nicely prior to pre-season.”

Sammy Moore put pen to paper on a Dons contract extension yesterday but Ardley is yet to agree fresh terms with Aaron Morris and Jim Fenlon.