Crawley name Kazim-Richards as new head coach

Crawley Town have named former Derby County, Brighton and Sheffield United forward Colin Kazim-Richards as their new head coach.

The 39-year-old – who has been involved in the youth set-up at Arsenal – takes over after the club parted company with Scott Lindsey on Monday.

Lindsey departed after a 10-match winless run in League Two, from which Crawley took just five points to leave them two places and a point above the relegation zone.

Kazim-Richards retired from playing in 2023 after a spell at Turkish side Fatih Karagumruk, with Celtic, Fenerbahce, Toulouse, Galatasaray, Olympiakos, Bursaspor, Feyenoord and Brazilian club Corinthians among his former clubs

He made 37 international appearances for Turkey, scoring twice, after making his debut in 2007.

Crawley owner Raphael Khalili told the club website: “Following a thorough and highly competitive recruitment process, Colin distinguished himself as an outstanding candidate.

Kazim-Richards’ first game in charge will be at home to Gillingham on Saturday, 28 March, before a crucial trip to relegation rivals Newport on Good Friday.

Khalili added: “Colin enjoyed a highly accomplished playing career and brings a wealth of experience across all levels of the game. That depth of knowledge will be invaluable given our current situation.

“Just as importantly, he has the ability to connect with players, inspire confidence, and foster a strong, unified environment within the squad.