FORMER Colchester United favourite Johnnie Jackson has been named the new manager of AFC Wimbledon.

The ex-Charlton Athletic boss, who made more than 100 league appearances for Colchester between 2006 and 2009, has signed a two-year deal with the south-west London club, who will play in Sky Bet League Two next season following relegation this year.

He told his new club's official website: "I cannot wait to get started.

"I am extremely familiar with the AFC Wimbledon story and have total respect for what the fans have achieved - especially the marvellous new ground.

"AFC Wimbledon and The Cherry Red Records Stadium don't belong in League Two and I'll be doing everything possible to get us back up again."

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Jackson, who played in the Championship for Colchester and was their player of the year in the 2007-08 season, left his role as Charlton boss earlier this month.

AFC Wimbledon's interim chairman Mick Buckley said: "We are thrilled to be making these appointments.

"Johnnie had a successful first season as manager at Charlton last season following four years in assistant/caretaker manager roles.

"We wanted a young, hungry manager with a point to prove and that, coupled with his demonstrable knowledge of how to get results, gave him the edge over a strong field of candidates."

Terry Skiverton, a former coach at Charlton, will be Jackson's assistant.