Key defender Kyle McFadzean is winning his battle to be fit for Crawley’s crucial clash with third-placed Newport County today.

McFadzean has been battling with a hamstring injury and had to pull out of the England C squad earlier this week.

He will need a fitness test but Reds’ boss Steve Evans expects him to line up for the leaders against County.

Evans said: “I do think he will be fit. I want the players to enjoy these matches and you normally only do that when you are in top of your game.”

McFadzean’s central defensive partner will change with Pablo Mills serving a one-match ban.

Evans believes the quality of his squad can only be properly judged against the top sides.

He added: “When the big matches come they have to produce. I expect them to look very good against some of the lesser teams but it’s matches against the Newports that they will be judged.”

County striker Robbie Matthews is struggling to face his former club after injuring his hamstring in training.