Darren Ward: Crawley Town sign Swindon defender on loan

Ward began his career at Watford, making his senior debut in January 1997

Crawley Town have signed Swindon Town centre-back Darren Ward on loan until the end of the season.

The 36-year-old made 45 appearances for the Robins in 2013-14 but has not featured so far this season.

"We are a young outfit with not a lot of experience and he will be like a coach on the pitch," Reds interim manager Dean Saunders told BBC Surrey.

"He played in the Premier League and the FA Cup final for Millwall and at his age he has seen everything."

Ward's most recent competitive game was last March but Saunders has dismissed any notion that the defender is lacking fitness.

"He is a fitness fanatic and you are only as old as you feel," the 50-year-old said.

"Age is a just number when you a footballer. Some go when they are 30 and others can play until they are 40.

"I am sure he will be a good acquisition for us."

Ward has played for Watford, Millwall, Crystal Palace and Wolves, as well as taking in loan spells with QPR and Charlton, in a career spanning 19 years.

Meanwhile, Crawley have signed midfielder Blair Anderson on a short-term deal and handed striker Charles Banya a new week-to-week contract.

Anderson, 22, joins from Midlands League side Basford United following a trial spell with the Reds.