Dermot Drummy wants to keep a tight-knit squad at Crawley.

The Reds boss is not planning to boost playing numbers to cope with the abolition of emergency loans.

But he will look to use the existing loan market, which allows for longer-term deals made within the transfer window.

Drummy, currently piecing together his squad for League Two action, said: “I will go with approximately 20 outfield players. It could be 18 to 20.

“A young one might also come in and learn but I don’t want to overload ourselves.

“In training groups I need 18 so I try and keep that balance and try and get two in most positions or get some who can do a dual role.

“You will get injuries but I don’t want to overload the budget or our training regime, where you have got players standing around.

“You have got to do your diligence, get your planning right.

“I can only put three subs on in a game.”

Reds made ample use of the emergency loan market last season but Drummy likes the new set-up.

He said: “I think the loans are quite sensible.

“You take someone on a six-month loan because the short-term loan was exactly that.

“It was come and see and, if not, you can go back. It doesn’t add to the dynamic of the team. I want someone to come for six months and challenge for a place.

“Whoever comes on loan will be told he is fighting for a spot. That just breeds good habits.”