John Gregory looking for a big improvement in tonight’s trophy game against Gillingham
On Saturday Reds gave a lacklustre display to tamely go out of the FA Cup in the First Round when they lost 1-0 away to Yeovil Town.
Gregory said: “I was critical of the players on Saturday and they deserved it - we went out of the cup with a whimper.
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Hide Ad“On Saturday we did not have enough effort and that’s galling for the coaches here and the supporters. Players who always give 100 percent are always the crowd favourites - they will see through people who perform for one match and then you don’t see them for a month.
“Saturday was not good enough. I protect the players and am always very loyal to them but sometimes I need protecting.
“They have the opportunity to put it right against Gillingham in the JPT.”
“It depends on the type of team Peter Taylor puts out. We are geared up regardless of what team Peter sends.
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Hide Ad“Wembley beckons - we have given up one opportunity to get there but now we must use this opportunity to make sure we do.
“There’s a few who are probably lacking in confidence. There’s a few who are probably looking over their shoulder at someone wanting to replace them.
“I am sure there will be a different Crawley Town out and we have got to make sure by hook and by crook we get to Wembley Stadium.”
Reds will welcome back Mat Sadler at left back who was not allowed to play in the FA Cup by his club Rotherham in his final game before he returns from his loan spell.
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Hide AdDean Leacock is suspended having picked up his fifth booking at Yeovil. Marvin Elliott is ruled out suffering from a groin injury.
Gwion Edwards is unlikely to play as he is suffering from a slight hernia.