Darius Charles is one of four players who have committed themselves to League One’s newest side – and given his love for his team-mates, it is no wonder.

Dannie Bulman, Barry Fuller and George Francomb have also signed on the dotted line while Callum Kennedy, Sean Rigg and Adebayo Akinfenwa has left the League Two play-off champions.

Central defender Charles joined AFC Wimbledon on loan from Burton Albion in March and forged a solid partnership with Paul Robinson at the back.

In 12 games with the duo at the heart of the defence, the Dons have conceded just seven goals – playing a key role in getting to Wembley.

However, the 28-year-old hailed his team-mates work ethic from the opening game of the season.

“The play-off final was not won today, it was won at the start of the season with all the work the lads have put in,” he said.

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“I have been here on loan here for three months, and I am inspired everyday by the boys.

“The work they put in is unlike anything I have seen before.”

He added: “These games are never won on the day. There is a reason why, at the end of a long season, people can push and give that little bit extra to win the play-off games with all the emotions running round, so I would say the game was won on August 8.”

Goals from Lyle Taylor and the departing Akinfenwa from the penalty spot saw off Plymouth Argyle at Wembley to spark wild celebrations among the Dons fans.

Charles said: “I am emotionally and mentally knackered, but the rewards are well worth it.”

Ardley told Dons Player: “Darius has been immense. Before extra-time at Accrington I did not need to do a team talk because Darius did it for me and this is a guy who just does not want to lose, that transmits to the rest of the team.

“I still don’t think we’ve seen the best of him yet. He has still had problems after suffering a broken leg last year, but if he’s only at 80 per cent I would love to see him at 100 per cent.”