WALLY Downes deserves plenty of credit for getting AFC Wimbledon back into contention to stay up, according to Karl Robinson.

They visit Oxford United tomorrow in a clash of two in-form sides.

Both bosses were

short-listed for the Sky Bet League One manager of the month award, which was won by Luton Town’s Mick Harford.

While the U’s have climbed away from trouble all the way to the top half, the Dons’ rise is arguably more remarkable.

Also read: Oxford United's Jamie Mackie in no mood to sit out AFC Wimbledon clash despite head wound

They were nine points adrift at the bottom two months ago, but Downes has steered them to 20 points from the last ten games, putting his side in contention to complete a great escape.

Robinson said: “The manager and his assistant have obviously worked tirelessly to put them into a position where they’re hard to beat.

“They have set pieces where they can hurt you and certain running patterns that make it difficult for you to defend.

“You’ll see a game on Saturday which will be hard for us.

“We’re going to have to be patient in that and overcome a very resolute, honest, talented, hard-working AFC Wimbledon team.

“The manager has galvanised them and deserves all the plaudits.”