Luke O’Neill caused a bit of a stir among Gills fans with comments about his former club.

He joined AFC Wimbledon in the summer, following his Priestfield exit, and spoke about the move to the club’s official website.

O’Neill had spent two seasons with the Gills, making 76 league appearances and scoring some fine free-kicks.

But he felt the Gills lacked ambition.

In an interview with his new club, he said: “I really enjoyed my time at Gillingham as I played 90 games for them, but I needed a new challenge.

“It felt like there was a bit of a standstill at the club, that there was no ambition there.

“Obviously, the people at the top decided to get rid of Steve Lovell. I was never staying there, even though they offered me a contract. I was also looking to move a bit closer to home.

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“I did have a couple of other options to go to other clubs in this division, but I wanted to come here, and I’m happy to be at Wimbledon.

“Once I met with the manager I knew straight away that I wanted to come here. He laid out what he wanted from me and said I’d be a big part of the team. That’s always great to hear – and I feel I will be a big part of the team, so I can’t wait to get going!”

Another incentive for O’Neill is Wimbledon’s forthcoming move to a new stadium. New Plough Lane is being built near to the club’s former home ground and is expected to be open for the start of next season.

“It will be brilliant for the club when it happens,” said O’Neill.

O’Neill has featured in Wimbledon’s two opening league games. They are due to face the Gills in November.

His free-kick for Gillingham against Luton was up there with his best but he's already shown the Dons fans what he can do, with a beauty in pre-season.

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