Balkestein out to better Dons loan spell (From Streatham Guardian)

Balkestein out to better Dons loan spell

10:43am Wednesday 18th July 2012 in AFC Wimbledon By Stuart Amos

New Dons defender Pim Balkestein has admitted he will have his work cut out to better his loan spell at Kingsmeadow last term.

The 25-year-old completed a move to AFC Wimbledon on Tuesday to become boss Terry Brown's fifth signing of the summer after being released by League One Brentford.

The Dutchman joined the Bees from Ipswich Town having impressed then manager Andy Scott during a spell on loan at Griffin Park, but struggled to re-capture that form when the move was made permanent.

Balkestein helped the Dons to three crucial home wins in six appearances last term that went a long way to securing their League Two safety and he hoped to better this time around.

"When I was here last time we won three games at home, but hopefully I can help us do better when we go away," he said.

"The fans showed that they liked me last time I was here and I hope to play a lot of games next season. We have made some good signings and hopefully we can do better than 16th next season.

"I think that we can climb six or seven places and maybe challenge for the play-offs.

"It was made clear to me that I was not part of Brentford's plans after they signed another centre-back and it is great for me to get another chance in English football."