Crawley Town have signed defender Alex Davey on loan from Chelsea.

The 21-year-old centre-back has joined Reds until January 3 and goes straight into the squad for Saturday's trip to Doncaster Rovers.

Davey played under Crawley boss Dermot Drummy at Chelsea's academy and although he has never featured for the Blues first team he made 17 appearances for Scunthorpe two years ago and another ten for Peterborough last season.

Drummy said: “I know Alex from my Chelsea days. He is a good footballer, comfortable in possession but first and foremost an excellent committed defender.

“We were going to bring Alex in before Mark Connolly got sent off on Tuesday because I felt it was an area of the team where we need competition for places. He knows there are no guarantees – but I know he has the ability to challenge for a place.”

Davey, who has just returned from a loan spell with Stabaek Fotball in the Norwegian top flight, said: "I’m really pleased to be here with the opportunity to get games under my belt.

“Dermot was my coach in the under-21s at Chelsea so I know him well and the way he wants to play which I’m excited about. I also know a few of the lads who are already here which has definitely helped me settle in.”