AFC Wimbledon boss Johnnie Jackson has thanked Carabao Cup opponents Newcastle and “the football family” for the donations which are helping ease the misery of their pitch battle.

The Dons were last week scheduled to meet the Magpies at the Cherry Red Records Stadium, until the pitch was hit by flooding after parts of the country experienced a month’s rainfall in 24 hours.

The damage caused meant Saturday’s Sky Bet League Two clash at home to Accrington was also postponed.

However, more than £120,000 has been raised for repairs, with the cup tie rescheduled for Tuesday at St James’ Park.

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Jackson told his club’s official website: “In a really difficult week, I think it’s shown what this club is all about again and I think it’s shown what the football family is all about too.

“It’s in our DNA as a club that when obstacles are in our way, we knock them down. Hopefully we can get back to playing at Plough Lane as soon as possible,

“I’ve got to say that the way that we’ve dealt with it is a credit to everyone. A big thank you to everyone who played a part in the clean-up operation, the professionalism that all the staff showed in handling the situation and then, obviously, the kindness that people up and down the country have shown in donating to the cause.”

Premier League outfit Newcastle paid £15,000 to help with damages.

Jackson thanked Tuesday’s opponents, who held champions Manchester City to a 1-1 draw on Saturday.

“We want to say thank you to Newcastle as a club,” Jackson, added.

“They were really helpful in switching the game so quickly – they didn’t have to do that. They’ve also donated to the fundraising, which is also a fantastic gesture. That probably encouraged others to get behind it too.

“They’re a great side. They were really impressive on Saturday against the champions Manchester City. It’ll be a stern test after they claimed a point.

“They are coached fantastically by Eddie Howe and his staff and are right up there at the pinnacle of English football as a club. It’ll be a brilliant test for us as players and staff.”

Jackson revealed vice-captain Ryan Johnson will miss the third round tie and captain Jake Reeves will undergo a late fitness test.

The winners will face in-form Chelsea at home.