Crawley new boy will be willing to learn as he returns to EFL ranks

By Ben Reynolds

Crawley could have another gem in new signing Antony Papadopoulos, according to his former manager.

Papadopoulos, who recently signed a two-year deal with Reds after his contract with Welling United expired.

His Welling boss was current Hastings manager Danny Bloor.

Papadopoulos impressed during the 2022-23 season, making 41 appearances for the Wings, missing only five matches and scoring three goals.

He began his career in Leyton Orient’s academy and signed his first professional contract with the club in May 2021.

Bloor said: “He’s very much an example of a boy who’s initially got released from a pro club and then goes into non league football, played on a regular basis and certainly deserves the opportunity with Crawley Town in my opinion.”

“He can play in a number of positions.”

“He’s very versatile, he’s very committed and one of his major assets is that he’s willing to learn and he’s very happy to, you know, kick in and keep listening and learning.”

“We beat Dartford when I was Welling manager in the FA cup and Paps scored a hat-trick.”

Crawley secured promotion to the third tier with a 2-0 victory over Crewe Alexandra in the League Two play-off final at Wembley.

Papadopoulos said: “I feel like I really came into my own last season, and I had a lot of appearances, and it has always been my ambition to get back into the EFL.”