Matt Tubbs: ‘I can’t wait to get started’

The striker has today joined Reds on loan for a month from Championship side AFC Bournemouth, subject to Football League ratification.

For the first half of this season Tubbs has been on loan with League One rivals Rotherham, who are manaed former reds’ boss Steve Evans, making 21 appearances including ten starts and scoring one goal.

Matt joined the squad for training this morning and manager John Gregory is delighted to have him on board.

Gregory said: “I know all about Matt’s goalscoring record here and how much the fans loved him and he really wants to do well again for the club – he’s absolutely delighted to be coming back here.

“He loved his time at Crawley and that was a big factor in his decision to come back. We will have for a month and take it from there but I think he can make a big difference to our attack.

“He is a very cool customer in the penalty area, a great natural finisher. Believe me, he can’t wait to get started again here because he has a great affinity for Crawley Town and our supporters.”

Matt is cup-tied so won’t be involved against Bristol Rovers on Wednesday but he hopes to be in the squad for Sunday’s League One game at Coventry City.

Tubbs said: “It’s great to be back at a club where I have such great memories.

“I’m really looking forward to working with John Gregory and getting some goals for the club and the fans, who were brilliant to me when I was here before. It’s a big challenge for me because in a way I have to prove myself all over again but I can’t wait to get started.”

Chairman Dave Pottinger said: “It just shows how popular Matt was as a player when he was here before. Our fans love him and he is coming back determined to show everyone that he is capable of scoring goals and improving our team.

“I was absolutely delighted to help give the fans what they wanted – although I must stress that this is a football decision made by John Gregory and his management team. We are delighted to have Matt back at the club.”