'I’ve dreamed of this as a kid' - Crawley Town's newest signing can't wait to get going

Russell, 21, joined from Glentoran FC for an undisclosed fee to become the Reds’ fourth signing of the January transfer window, following the acquisitions of Theo Vassell, Taylor Richards and Tobi Adeyemo.

The highly rated defender had been at his former club since the age of 10, progressing from the academy to make his first-team debut in the 2022-23 season.

For the Northern Ireland under-21 international, the move to Crawley was an easy decision to make.

“I’m delighted to be here and delighted to sign, so looking forward to it and can’t wait to get going,” Russell said.

“Honestly, everything I’ve looked at so far has been brilliant and it looks good. So, very professional and can’t wait to get started.

“Listen, I’ve saw where they are and it’s handy as well. Looking forward to it and hopefully be able to pick up some more points and really kick on this season, start well.”

Russell admitted the move to England has accomplished a childhood dream of his.

He said: “This is my first chance to get over the water, and everyone wants a chance to play in England.

“I’ve dreamed of this as a kid and that’s why you play football – to try and get across the water and play as high as you can, so it’s a brilliant opportunity for myself. Hopefully I can take it and kick on now.”

Russell, the fourth signing in three days, joins an evolving group of Crawley players and the Northern Irishman has had a good first impression of his teammates.

“Buzzing,” he admitted. “Met a couple of the lads already and they seem 100 per-cent, so I’m really looking forward to it. Can’t wait to get going.”

The defender noted the difference between the NIFL and the English Football League while revealing his excitement to meet the Reds fans for the first time.

He said: “I’d say there’ll probably be a wee bit better standard anyway, but there’ll be plenty of football and every game’s gonna be 100 mile an hour and you just need to prepare yourself for it. So, hopefully everything goes to plan.

“Listen, I’ve been at the Glens ten years and I’ve enjoyed my time, but now it’s next chapter and ready to move on. So, hopefully everything goes to plan and I can really kick on.

“I can’t wait to get going, like even our stadium here is massive compared to back home. I’m looking forward to it, and the Crawley fans – I've heard nothing apart from good things, so I’m really looking forward to getting out there and getting at it.”

Russell gave an insight into what Reds fans can expect to see from him on the pitch.

He said: “I’m left-footed, either a defender or a wing-back, or anywhere. Like to get forward, put balls in the box.

“I like to make tackles, and they’ve probably saw a long throw as well so I’m sure that’ll be in use as well.”

The 21-year-old hadn’t had a conversation with Reds manager Scott Lindsey yet, but was excited to play under the boss and implement his style of football.

“I haven’t really had a chance to speak to him yet, but I’m sure I’ll speak to him over the next couple of hours and looking forward to it.

“I like playing football and that’s the way it should be played. Obviously, there’s a time and place where it should be played so hopefully we can really make a good impact.”

Crawley Town are back in League Two action on Sunday when they travel to Cheltenham Town before a 13-day break.