Crawley Town defender Akin Odimayo has set out the team's ambition to bounce back strongly this season after a difficult previous campaign. The 26-year-old, speaking this week, emphasised the desire to leave a positive imprint on League Two as the Reds look to build on their current position of 17th in the table with four points from four matches.
What are Crawley Town's aims this season?
Akin Odimayo was clear about the collective target. "I'll start with the team. We want to bounce back from last season, leave an imprint on this league this season," the defender said. The comments, reported by www.chichester.co.uk, come as Crawley Town aim to move up from their mid-table standing. Head coach Colin Kazim-Richards guided the club to survival by a single point last term, finishing 22nd. The early 2026/27 form shows one win, one draw, and two losses, with three goals scored and five conceded. You can track their progress in the standings.
How has Odimayo contributed so far?
The former Swindon Town and Northampton Town player has been a versatile asset. Odimayo signed an 18-month contract in January 2026 and has recently filled in at right-back for the suspended Kellan Gordon across the last three fixtures. He noted that playing in various defensive roles is nothing new for him. "I have always played everywhere around the back during my career," Odimayo explained. His adaptability provides valuable cover as the squad navigates the opening phase of the season, with the full squad list showing his utility.
What is the current state of the squad?
Odimayo believes the new signings have settled in effectively. "The new additions have integrated really well," he stated, pointing to a positive atmosphere within the group despite the mixed results. The team's away form has been a relative bright spot, taking four points from their two matches on the road. However, with a goal difference of minus two, tightening up defensively will be a focus. The upcoming fixtures present an opportunity to build consistency.
Where does the team stand in the league?
The early League Two table paints a picture of a tight division. Crawley's four-point haul leaves them five points behind early leaders Bristol Rovers. Their recent form reads DLWL. This weekend offers a chance to gain ground as they face an Accrington Stanley side also searching for their first win of the campaign. Stanley are winless from their opening four games, setting up a contest where both teams will be desperate for three points. Crawley Town will be looking to their defensive unit, including Odimayo, to provide a platform for success. The defender's contract runs until the summer of 2027.
