Dean Leacock insists he still has plenty to offer after becoming Crawley Town’s 12th signing of the summer.

The former Derby County defender agreed a one-year deal yesterday after catching manager John Gregory’s eye in pre-season friendlies against Billingshurst and Oakwood.

Leacock, pictured, made nine Premier League appearances for Fulham at the start of his career before spending five seasons at Derby following a £350,000 move.

The 30-year-old was released by Notts County at the end of last season but is adamant he can repay manager John Gregory’s faith in him.

Leacock said: “I would say I’ve got a lot to offer still. I had a good year and a half at Notts County but at the end of it I had a few issues off the pitch which didn’t help me.

“I’ve sorted those out now and am looking for a new beginning at Crawley. We have got a good mix in the squad of experience and youngsters and hopefully I can make a difference.”

Leacock becomes the latest addition in Gregory’s wholesale rebuilding job at Crawley following the summer signings of Brian Jensen, Lanre Oyenbanjo, Sonny Bradley, Ryan Dickson, Connor Henderson, Jimmy Smith, Gwion Edwards, Lewis Young, Gavin Tomlin, Matt Harrold and Izale McLeod.

Gregory is confident Leacock can fill the void left by Kyle McFadzean who was one of only five players retained at the end of last season but was then sold to MK Dons last month.

The Reds boss said: “Dean is still hungry and wants to play. In football terms he is still young and is in great physical condition so I didn’t hesitate to sign him.

“He has got big shoes to fill in the No.5 shirt but I’m certain he will have a fairly good go at it.

“Sonny, Joe and Connor are all very young so to have someone of Dean’s experience and presence is a big plus.

“He won’t be afraid of letting others know if something isn’t right and will be a strong voice in the dressing room and on the pitch.”

Leacock is due to feature against his former club Fulham in Crawley’s first home friendly tomorrow but Gregory will not make a decision on any of his other trialists until after the match against Albion next Wednesday.