AFC Wimbledon’s preparations for the new season have been dealt a massive blow after new signing Mat Mitchel-King was struck down with glandular fever.

The 27-year-old defender has already missed the Dons’ first two pre-season friendlies and is expected to be out of action for at least a month if not longer.

Manager Terry Brown has been forced to test Lee Minshull and Chris Bush’s capabilities at centre-half in the wins over Fulham, 2-0, and Staines Town, 5-1, this week but, with Brett Johnson, Jamie Stuart and Fraser Franks also able to fill the role, he is not looking to bring in another defender.

“Losing Mat is a major blow to us,” he said.

“It is very difficult to judge how long he will be out and although the club doctor expects it to be four to six weeks, it could be anything over that.

“He is a big strong lad and I am hoping that helps his body recover.

“We have been playing Lee at centre half in the friendlies and will try Chris there as well.

“The only other injury we have got is Fraser, who is still a couple of months away from coming back, but he is a very good defender and I don’t think we need to add again to cover Mat.”

Wimbledon eased to victory last night thanks to two goals from Jack Midson and strikes from Christian Jolley, Brendan Kiernan and Minshull.