Gregory shakes up Crawley squad

Crawley boss John Gregory has dumped five players on the transfer list including captain Josh Simpson.

Gregory has become increasingly frustrated by his side's recent displays - they are without a win in four matches - and even revealed he was considering his own position following the recent 1-1 draw with Crewe. Instead the under-pressure manager has launched a clear-out with Simpson, fellow midfielder Conor Henderson, striker Matt Harrold, winger Lewis Young and veteran goalkeeper Brian Jensen victims of the axe. Defender Joe Walsh will replace Simpson as the club's captain while Gregory has been given the green light to bring in players on loan. Chief executive Michael Dunford told the club website: "The board/owners will continue to support the manager in his efforts to strengthen the squad and whilst players have been transfer-listed the board are happy to fund loan deals so that the squad can be strengthened through to the opening of the transfer window on January 1. "Already the board have committed over £800,000 this season. Like all our supporters, their wish is to see a successful team so even set against our reduced attendances this season they have agreed to provide additional funds to the manager." Left-back Mat Sadler has gone back to Rotherham after Gregory opted not to extend his loan deal.