Crawley co-owner quits and criticises transfers

Preston Johnson was part of the group WAGMI United which completed a takeover of Crawley Town in 2022

Crawley Town have defended their transfer market activity after the club's co-owner resigned in protest at their summer recruitment.

Preston Johnson, who was also the Reds' chief executive, announced he was departing Broadfield Stadium in a post on his X account on Saturday.

The American, who bought the club as part of WAGMI United in April 2022, said new investors were taking over the parent company and "have a different vision of the future".

He continued: "As a result, the player recruitment this summer has gone a different direction than the data-driven approach that has powered our success in the last few years.

"I do not believe this shift represents the best path forward for the club, which is why I've made the difficult decision to step back and make space for the new leadership to pursue their vision without my involvement."

The identities of the new WAGMI United investors have not yet been disclosed.

'Recruitment at Crawley is a balanced process'

Crawley first announced in May 2024 that Johnson would be stepping back from his duties for personal reasons, while retaining his position as co-owner.

It came shortly after the Reds beat Crewe Alexandra in the League Two play-off final to win promotion to the third tier under Scott Lindsey.

Lindsey left the club to join MK Dons shortly after the start of last season and was replaced by former Gateshead boss Rob Elliot, who was dismissed after less than six months in the job before Lindsey returned in March.

But the 53-year-old could not save the club from relegation back to League Two.

Crawley have made eight signings so far this summer, including former Chelsea midfielder Kyle Scott, who joined the club on a three-year contract on Thursday.

In response to Johnson's comments, Crawley said "data will continue to play a key role in our decision making, alongside other critical considerations".

A statement on their website added: "Crawley Town Football Club thanks Preston Johnson for his service as chairman and CEO.

"We are grateful for his innovation, leadership, and commitment over the past few years.

"Recruitment at Crawley Town is, and will remain, a balanced process, one that draws on data, experience, and instinct.

"While we acknowledge Preston's recent statement, we believe that multiple perspectives contribute to a successful footballing strategy."

'It wasn't his fault we got relegated' - reaction

Steve Leake, from Crawley Town's Supporters Alliance, told BBC Radio Sussex he was saddened by Johnson's departure.

"I think he has been good for us in the long run - it wasn't his fault we got relegated, he will be missed," Leake said.

"The ground looks better now, with a new away terrace.

"I can see his side of the argument - in terms of buying young and developing players - and also the new guys' side, in terms of adding players with more experience."

Crawley begin the new League Two season away to Grimsby Town on Saturday, 2 August.