AFC Wimbledon confirmed on Tuesday that striker Ryan Kelly has terminated his contract and re‑signed with National League side Woking, ending a brief stint that yielded just two substitute appearances.

Why did Kelly leave?

Kelly joined the Dons in January 2026 on a short‑term deal, hoping to add firepower to a side struggling at the foot of League One. After failing to break into the starting XI, both player and club agreed a mutual termination would be best. Manager Johnnie Jackson noted the move "allows Ryan to get regular minutes, which he needs at this stage of his career". The decision comes as Wimbledon sit 19th in League One with 53 points, a record of 15W‑8D‑23L from 46 games and a recent form of LWLLL.

How does this affect the Dons' attack?

Wimbledon have scored 51 goals this season while conceding 72, leaving a –21 goal difference. Losing Kelly, who contributed no goals, may not change the tally, but it narrows the already thin striking options. The club still has Joe Pigott and Kian Flanagan to rely on, yet both have struggled to find consistency. With the next fixture against Sutton United away on 18 July 2026, the Dons will need to shuffle their forward line quickly.

What does Woking gain?

Woking welcome Kelly back after his loan spell in 2023‑24, where he netted five times. The club’s manager Steve Evans praised the striker’s experience, saying "Ryan brings a league pedigree that will boost our push for a top‑half finish". Kelly’s familiarity with Woking’s system should see him start immediately, offering the team a proven goal scorer as they chase promotion.

What’s next for AFC Wimbledon?

The Dons remain 34 points adrift of leaders Bromley in the title race, their focus now on avoiding the drop. With the squad thin on forwards, Jackson hinted at promoting a youth prospect from the academy for the upcoming Sutton United clash. Meanwhile, the club continues scouting for a permanent signing before the summer window closes.

AFC Wimbledon’s season remains precarious, but the Kelly departure underscores a broader need for attacking reinforcements as they fight to stay up in League One.