Former Albion favourite John Crumplin is hoping his healing touch can revive St Leonards' fortunes and his own managerial aspirations.

Crumplin, 34, has recently qualified as a sports physio after attaining a Premier Sports Diploma. The former player-manager of County League Three Bridges admits his decision to sign as a player for eastern division St Leonards is only short-term as he plans to return to management.

He said: "After being in charge for the last four years it is a bit different now I have to take the orders. Micky Taylor is a decent bloke to play for and after the responsibility of recent years it is a pleasant change to concentrate more on my own game.

"I'm definitely going to play for St Leonards this season and maybe I'll play next season as well. I'm a sweeper these days and I can delegate so I don't have to run as much. After all, there's no point getting older if you don't get wiser.

"Eventually I'd like to get back into football management but at a level no less than St Leonards. Right now I'm using some of my managerial and playing experience to help the youngsters on and off the pitch.

"Playing with the likes of Steve Gatting and Danny Wilson helped me, so I'm happy to try and return the favour."

Crumplin is also using his new qualification to help his injured team-mates. "I practiced on a few of the players' backs in pre-season," he said.

Boss Taylor is pleased with Crumplin's contribution. He said: "Johnny is not one of these ex-professionals who turns up late and doesn't accept any criticism. He is a tremendous character and a real asset to the club."

Crumplin is best remembered for his performances for Albion but despite fond memories of playing for the Seagulls - he made 245 appearances between 1987 and 1995 - he confesses that he has not seen the team play at Withdean.

He said: "The trouble is I'm normally involved with football myself when they're playing."

St Leonards entertain Banbury United tomorrow.

Stuart Myall returns for Hastings' game at Rugby tomorrow after a spell coaching in the America and Steve Ferguson will have a check on a hamstring injury. Hastings will be without Chris Honey, who is off on holiday.

Eastbourne Borough hope to name an unchanged team from Tuesday night's win at Bashley in the eastern division game at Tonbridge. Keith Miles (calf), Matt Crabb (thigh) and Dave Adams (knee) have all shaken off their injuries.

Crawley boss Billy Smith does not expect to make any changes from Tuesday's 2-1 premier division defeat at Folkestone for their trip to Kettering.