Former Barcelona, Chelsea and Man United star named new manager of Crawley Town's League Two rivals

The ex-Barcelona, Manchester United and Chelsea striker replaces Derek Adams, who departed Valley Parade on February 15.

READ THIS: New date and time confirmed for Salford City v Crawley Town.

The Bantams sit 15th in League Two, one place below the Reds although John Yems' men have three games in hand.

Speaking to the club's website, Hughes, who has also managed Southampton, Blackburn Rovers, Stoke City, Fulham and QPR in the Premier League, said: "I am really pleased to be here and am looking forward to the role, and the job in hand. It has been an exciting few days.

READ THIS: Here's how the League Two table would look based on points won in 2022 - and where Crawley Town, Bradford City, Northampton Town and Leyton Orient would be.

"It is maybe a little bit of a surprise that I have come in, but do not be put off by that!

READ THIS: Crawley Town Football Club use Premier League youth programme to connect with the local community.

"I am here for a reason: to make Bradford City a team people want to come and watch - and are proud to watch.

"The supporters come in their numbers, and that is the thing I have missed since being out of management. I am looking forward to the matchday, getting that adrenaline flowing and interacting with the crowd.

"Certainly, from now until the end of the year, we just want to finish strongly and see where that takes us.

"We want to move the club and everybody with it forward, and hope we can have the success everyone wants."

Crawley have already met Bradford twice this campaign, recording 2-1 victories at home and on the road in September and January respectively.

For the latest breaking news where you live in Sussex, follow us on Twitter @Sussex_World and like us on Facebook @SussexWorldUK.​