Andy Drury is expected to make a popular return to Crawley Town next week.

The midfielder is poised to sign for Reds on Monday following his release by Ipswich Town at the end of last season.

Drury had hoped to remain in the Championship having been shown the door by Mick McCarthy after two and a half years at Portman Road.

But when no offers arose he decided to return to Broadfield Stadium where he enjoyed a successful loan spell two years ago.

Crawley were remaining tight lipped over the future of Drury, right, last night but sources close to the player have confirmed a deal is likely to be completed after the weekend.

Drury had previously said on his release by Ipswich: “I’d consider playing in League One if the opportunity is right. I’ve just had a newborn baby so staying down south would suit me better. “I’m looking for a club for the next three or four years now. I just want to play as much football as I can.”

Dury played 15 games, scoring four goals, during a loan spell with Reds in September 2011 which lifted Steve Evans’ side to the top of League Two.

Evans who wanted to sign the former Lewes midfielder on a permanent basis but Reds were unable to agree a fee with Ipswich who had paid Luton Town £150,000 for his services in January 2011.

Reds won 12 and drew the other three matches during Drury’s time at Broadfield Stadium and it was no coincidence Crawley’s fortunes dipped when he returned to Portman Road.

The 29-year-old’s form for Crawley helped him force his way back into the Ipswich team under Paul Jewell. But he was unable to command a regular place in McCarthy’s team last season and was released at the end of the campaign.