Crawley Town have announced the signing of experienced striker Connor Wickham and former Bristol City and Plymouth Argyle midfielder Ayman Benarous.

Both join on short-term deals ending in early January.

Bringing a wealth of experience from the very highest levels of English football, Wickham arrives with an outstanding footballing pedigree, having represented some of the country's most established clubs, including Sunderland, Crystal Palace, Ipswich Town, Sheffield Wednesday, Leeds United, Cardiff City and Charlton Athletic.

The 33-year-old began his professional career at Ipswich, making his first-team debut at just 16 years old and becoming the club's youngest-ever player at the time. His impressive performances quickly attracted attention from Premier League clubs, eventually earning him a move to Sunderland in 2011.

Crawley Town new boy Connor Wickham (centre) in action for Cardiff City at Watford in 2023. Picture by Shaun Botterill/Getty Images

placeholder image — Crawley Town new boy Connor Wickham (centre) in action for Cardiff City at Watford in 2023. Picture by Shaun Botterill/Getty Images

During his time at Sunderland, Wickham established himself in the Premier League and played a crucial role in the Black Cats' remarkable survival during the 2013-14 campaign. His goals against Manchester City, Chelsea and Cardiff helped secure vital points, earning him the prestigious Premier League Player of the Month award in April 2014.

Throughout his career, the powerful forward has also enjoyed spells with Sheffield Wednesday, Leeds, Preston North End, MK Dons, Forest Green Rovers, Cardiff and Charlton, gaining extensive experience across the Premier League and English Football League.

Benarous arrives with experience in the EFL Championship and League One, having previously represented Bristol City and Plymouth Argyle, as well as earning international recognition with England at Under-17 level.

Born in Bristol, the 23-year-old joined his boyhood club Bristol City at just six years old, progressing through the club's academy ranks before signing his first professional contract in February 2021, aged 17.

Ayman Benarous in action for Bristol City in 2022. Picture by Alex Davidson/Getty Images

A highly regarded prospect throughout his development, Benarous impressed for City's youth and under-23 sides, including a standout performance in which he scored a hat-trick against Watford under-23s. His performances earned him a place in the first-team picture, making his senior debut in October 2021 during a 2-1 Championship victory over Barnsley at Ashton Gate.

After leaving Bristol City in the summer of 2025, the midfielder joined Plymouth Argyle, adding further senior experience in League One and domestic cup competitions to his footballing CV.

Deals for Wickham and Benarous are both subject to the usual EFL and FA Approvals.