Defender Joe Lewis has joined Burton Albion on a free transfer after leaving AFC Wimbledon. The 26-year-old signed a one-year contract with the League One club.
Lewis departed Wimbledon at the end of the 2024-25 season following a successful spell. He made 121 appearances in all competitions for the Dons and scored nine goals. His final campaign was particularly memorable as he helped the club secure promotion from League Two via the play-offs.
Joe Lewis offers Burton Albion an experienced defender familiar with League One football. He began his professional career at Swansea City but did not make a first-team appearance for the Welsh club. Subsequent spells at Torquay United and Stockport County provided him with valuable league experience before his move to Wimbledon solidified his reputation.
His time at Plough Lane saw him become a reliable figure in defence. The nine goals he contributed from the back also highlight an attacking threat from set-pieces. Burton manager Martin Paterson will hope Lewis can help shore up a defence that has conceded three goals in their opening two league games this season.
Lewis's departure was confirmed at the end of last season, meaning Wimbledon manager Johnnie Jackson has already planned for his absence. The club currently sits 23rd in League One with just one point from their first two matches. They have scored no goals and conceded three, leaving them with a minus-three goal difference.
That defensive record will be a concern as they prepare for their next fixture. Wimbledon are already six points behind early leaders Blackpool, making a positive result in their upcoming game important.
The timing of the transfer sets up a potential immediate reunion. Burton Albion host AFC Wimbledon at the Pirelli Stadium on Wednesday, 2 September, with kick-off at 19:45 BST. Lewis could make his debut for his new club against the team he left just months ago.
That match takes on added significance given both teams' early season positions. Burton currently occupy 12th place in the table, while Wimbledon are looking to climb from the bottom third. A look at the standings shows how tight the early season table remains.
Johnnie Jackson's side must focus on improving their attacking output after failing to score in their opening two games. The visit to Burton represents an opportunity to get their first win of the campaign. Squad depth will be tested throughout the season, and fans can track player availability via our injuries page.
The club's recruitment team will have been working to replace Lewis's minutes since his departure was confirmed. Building a squad capable of competing in League One remains the priority. Securing results on the pitch is the immediate task, starting with a challenging away trip to Staffordshire.
