MK Dons agree to meet with AFC Wimbledon after scoreboard and programme snub

The sides met for the second time at the Cherry Red Records Stadium in September, but AFC failed to make mention of the ‘Dons’ part of MK Dons name on the scoreboard and in the programme, and didn’t use any pictures or the badge in their matchday programme - just as they did during the first meeting back in March. The charges were brought by the EFL rather than MK Dons.

In a statement released on Tuesday, Mr Cullen said he preferred the option to fining AFC for their misdemeanours.

“We recognise that the events that led to the EFL charges against AFC Wimbledon were and remain an emotive matter for supporters of both MK Dons and AFC Wimbledon,” he said. “However, we feel the opportunity for a mediation process, facilitated by the EFL, to be much more preferable than formal disciplinary proceedings, with the possibility of sanctions, which may further entrench the strong feelings on this matter amongst supporters of the two clubs.

“We are grateful to the EFL for their leadership on this sensitive matter.”

EFL Chief Executive, Shaun Harvey, said: “I would like to thank Milton Keynes Dons for their support in what we understand is a highly emotive matter for fans of both Clubs. The League understands the history and the strong feelings associated with the two Clubs and we will now look to work with them both in an attempt to secure a positive outcome.”

Mark Davis, Chair of the (AFC Wimbledon) Dons Trust Board, said: “The EFL’s proposal is a practical suggestion for reaching a resolution of an issue which arouses strong feelings. We will participate fully in the mediation process with the aim of arriving at an outcome that is acceptable to all parties, including the Dons Trust membership, who are the owners of AFC Wimbledon.”