Former Newcastle United stalwart Rob Elliott has been appointed new manager of Crawley Town just a fortnight ahead of their first-ever league meeting with Reading.

The Red Devils were promoted out of League Two via the play-offs last season but saw a whole host of key players- including former Royal Liam Kelly- depart over the summer.

To add insult to injury, much-loved manager Scott Lindsay opted to drop into League Two and take charge at MK Dons instead.

38-year-old Elliot had a 20-year playing career which began with Charlton Athletic and included a nine-year stint with Newcastle United where he registered just 68 appearances as a back-up.

The former Republic of Ireland international began his coaching career in the North-East with National League Gateshead, who sat fifth at the time of his departure.

He also took the 'Heed' to an FA Trophy win at Wembley having taken over from fellow Newcastle United servant Mike Williamson.

Elliott has signed a two-and-a-half-year deal and will manage at the SCL Stadium in a fortnight as Crawley visit Berkshire for the first-ever league meeting.

Elliot told the club website: “When the opportunity came about, it was impossible to turn down. I heard there might be some interest, and we spoke to the owners and had such a positive conversation. It is so exciting to see the way these players play, and I am really excited to get to work with them on the training ground."