New boss John Gregory admits the next four weeks are crucial if Crawley are to mount an unlikely promotion challenge.

Gregory insisted he was aiming for the play-offs as a minimum when he was unveiled as Richie Barker’s replacement on an 18-month contract on Tuesday.

The former Aston Villa boss expects funds to be made available to strengthen his squad in January but only if Crawley manage to stay in touch with the top six in League One.

Reds are due to play Preston, Leyton Orient, MK Dons and Notts County before the transfer window opens in the New Year while Saturday's FA Cup clash against Bristol Rovers is also vital to keep alive the prospect of a lucrative third round tie.

Gregory said: “The next month is crucial. If in a month's time we have gone back up the table and are in sight of the play-offs maybe the board are going to turn around and say ‘is there anyone you want' and they might find the money to give us that little a bit of a push.

“But you have to show them you know what you are doing, that the team are playing well and getting points on the board and in shooting distance of getting into the play-offs. If we do that then I'm sure this board will try to find the money for us to bring in that player who will just get us into that play-off position.”

Even if Gregory is allowed to spend in January he doesn't anticipate being given an open chequebook and knows he will have to pick his transfer targets wisely.

He added: “It is like your kids. If you give them a fiver and they go in the shop and blow it you are a bit reluctant to give them another fiver because you know they are just going to waste it.

“Chairmen are no different. They give you money to spend on a player and if he doesn't perform he doesn't want to give you any more money. You have to gain their trust.”