Rob Elliot has been named Crawley Town manager on a two-and-a-half-year deal.

The former Newcastle United goalkeeper led Gateshead to a sixth-placed finish in the National League and FA Trophy glory last season.

The BBC reported yesterday a deal had been agreed for Elliot to move to the League One club to replace Scott Lindsey, who took over at MK Dons last week.

“When the opportunity came about, it was impossible to turn down,” Elliot told Crawley’s website.

“I heard there might be some interest, and we spoke to the owners and had such a positive conversation.

“It is so exciting to see the way these players play, and I am really excited to get to work with them on the training ground.”

Crawley currently sit 20th in the league with seven points from seven games, having won promotion via the League Two play-offs under Lindsey last season.

Lindsey’s move to League Two Dons was announced on Wednesday, with Ben Gladwin put in interim charge for the Reds’ 2-0 defeat by Bolton Wanderers at the weekend.

Gladwin and Steve Hafner will remain in charge for Tuesday’s home match against Mansfield Town at Broadfield Stadium.

Despite reaching the National League play-offs last season, the club were barred from competing as their stadium contract did not meet the requirements of the English Football League.

The club then beat Solihull Moors on penalties to win the FA Trophy final at Wembley in May.

Elliot leaves the Heed fifth in the league with 23 points from 11 games.

His first match in charge of Crawley will be away to Wycombe Wanderers on Saturday.