Boss John Gregory has been told he will be given time to deliver success at Crawley Town.

Reds have made an inconsistent start to the season after Gregory was forced to completely overhaul his squad during the summer due to budget cuts.

By his own admission Gregory has struggled to achieve the targets he set himself when he was appointed ten months ago.

Crawley were 14th in League One when Richie Barker was sacked and went on to finish in the same position despite Gregory saying his goal was to clinch promotion.

The former Aston Villa boss said anything outside the top six would be considered a failure this season but a lack of goals so far means they travel to Coventry City on Saturday in 13th position – although they are only three points adrift of the play-offs.

Dunford said: “In certain ways the situation is very similar to that when Richie left but I have full confidence in John.

“A manager is judged on results but I think we owe it to John to let him have this season.

“What option do we have. We can’t afford to keep changing the management team as a new manager usually wants new staff and new players too.

“John cares passionately for this club and I personally believe he is the right man for the job.”