Ex-Arsenal, Tottenham and Celtic trialist left-back is impressing Crawley Town head coach

The former Arsenel, Tottenham Hotspur and Portsmouth youngster has caught the eye after starting two of Reds’ friendly matches.

He put in an accomplished showing against Championship outfit Brighton & Hove Albion on Saturday and also played in the second half against East Grinstead.

The 25-year-old ex-Bristol City, AFC Wimbledon, Celtic and Blackpool player was the only trialist to start against Chris Hughton’s side and he put in a strong showing.

Reds head coach Dermot Drummy revealed after the match that two more trialists would be signing, which are expected to be Blackman and Billy Clifford, with Charlie Gregory let go.

Drummy was quick to praise the defender’s attributes and he hopes that he is developing his maturity to match.

He said: “I was really pleased with him as he has had a few clubs, but he is getting older now and I think there is a time where they go through maturity.

“I said to him, this is your opportunity, in League Two people will look, so play well for us and see where your career goes, but I hope his career is back on track and maturity is what is needed.

“He has ability, physicality, he is technical, it’s just that maturity to blend in. He did well when he got fouled and he looks strong.

“He has been through the Arsenal academy. Most people that come through there are developed technically first and that is evident, but physically he is very good as well.”

In 2015, Blackman was ordered to carry out 40 hours of unpaid work by Hammersmith Magistrates’ Court after he admitted to stealing a £1,225 jacket from Harrods.

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