Former Sheffield United man lands first management job with shock League Two role
Crawley Town have appointed former Sheffield United striker Colin Kazim-Richards as their new head coach.
In a left field move, the League Two side has appointed the 39-year-old on a deal until the end of the season, tasking him with trying to preserve their English Football League status.
With just seven games of the season remaining, the Red Devils are currently 21st in League Two, sitting just two places and one point above the relegation zone. They have not been relegated from the Football League since clinching promotion from what is now known as the National League back in 2011.
Former Blade Kazim-Richards, who spent less than a year at Bramall Lane between August 2006 and June 2007, scoring just one goal in 29 appearances, is taking his first step into management after recently plying his coaching trade in the Arsenal youth set-up.
Crawley have moved swiftly to appoint Kazim-Richards, bringing him in after former boss Scott Lindsey was sacked on Sunday following a 1-0 defeat to Fleetwood Town on Saturday. That defeat extended their winless run in League Two to ten matches.
On the decision to appoint Kazim-Richards, Crawley owner Raphael Khalili told the club’s website: “Following a thorough and highly competitive recruitment process, Colin distinguished himself as an outstanding candidate. He is a natural leader with extensive experience in the dressing room, and we firmly believe he is the right person to guide the club forward at this important time.
“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. His ambition, determination, and clear vision for success made a strong impression on us.
“We are confident that under his leadership, he will install belief throughout the team and deliver a positive and sustained improvement in results.”
Kazim-Richards, who also represented the likes of Fenerbahçe, Galatasaray, Celtic and Derby County during his playing career, will take charge for the first time when Crawley host Gillingham on Saturday afternoon.