Crawley boss John Gregory is set to play it safe over the fitness of skipper Josh Simpson.

Simpson has made just two appearances this season due to injury.

The midfielder limped off at half-time in the opening day win at Barnsley with an ankle problem and then strained a hamstring on his comeback against Yeovil Town three weeks ago.

Simpson is in the squad for today’s match at Notts County but Gregory has hinted he may start on the bench to guard against any further setbacks ahead of the home game against Walsall on Tuesday.

Gregory said: “I am a bit nervous about whether Josh will start because I want him to be 100% certain.

“When Gwion (Edwards) had a knock a few weeks ago we waited until he said he was ready to play and if I got that same reaction from Josh then I would have no hesitation in starting him.

“But I want him to be 100% fit as we have got another game on Tuesday. It might be sensible to be cautious in this instance by sitting him on the bench.”

Top scorer Izale McLeod has recovered from a knee injury which forced him off during the first half of the 4-1 defeat to Peterborough last weekend while Edwards and Walsh both return from international duty with Wales.

Gregory added: “We missed those two big-time last weekend and I don’t think it is any coincidence that we have conceded four goals in each of the games Joe has missed this season.

“If Josh doesn’t start then Joe will get the armband back. He is a big presence at the back for us and I’m hoping having him at the heart of the defence will prevent a repeat of what happened last week.”