MIDFIELDER Mark Randall has joined League Two rivals Crawley Town on a two-year contract following his departure from Newport County AFC, writes Andrew Penman.

The 27-year-old central midfielder played a pivotal role in the Exiles’ survival last term under Michael Flynn as County survived on the final day of the 2016-2017 campaign.

But Randall was placed on the transfer list for a second time at his request in May as he looked to find a club closer to his home in Milton Keynes.

His contract at Rodney Parade was terminated by mutual consent on Wednesday and the former Arsenal man has now completed his planned move to Crawley.

Randall will be reunited with Warren Feeney at the West Sussex club.

Feeney was the manager who brought him to Newport last summer and is now assistant to former Liverpool star Harry Kewell at Crawley.

“As soon as I got a phone call from the head coach my mind was made up – I didn’t hesitate,” said Randall.

“I also know Warren from my time at Newport County too, he was great to work with and so the two of them were a big factor in me signing here.

“I like to get the ball down and play, and every time I’ve played against Crawley that’s what they’ve done.

“I’m just looking forward to getting started here now and want to do well this season.”

Director of Football Selim Gaygusuz said: “We’re delighted to welcome Mark to the club and add more quality to our midfield.

“The boys have returned to training this week and Mark represents another good addition to our squad.”

County will come up against another former player next season as one-time Rodney Parade favourite Ryan Jackson joined Colchester United.

Meanwhile the much-maligned Checkatrade Trophy has been boosted by the news that Manchester City, Tottenham Hotspur, Newcastle United and Fulham will take their place in this season’s competition.

Premier League champions Chelsea will again take part, and will be joined by 11 other under-21 sides from England’s top flight as the country’s leading Category One Academies pit their future prospects against professionals from the 48 League One and League Two clubs, including County.

In May it was announced that EFL clubs will have greater flexibility with regard to team selection.

The competition will also provide significant financial rewards for all EFL clubs, which increases with success.