Former MK Dons boss Scott Lindsey has made a swift return to the dugout, rejoining Crawley Town in a surprise twist just 18 days after being dismissed from Stadium MK.
The 52-year-old has signed a new deal with the League One side, securing his position until June 2028, marking a sensational return to the club where he previously masterminded promotion success.
Back Where It All Began
Lindsey originally left Crawley in September 2024, opting to drop into League Two to take over at MK Dons following Mike Williamson’s departure to Carlisle United. However, his time in Buckinghamshire unravelled quickly, winning just nine out of 29 games. A dismal spell of two victories in 16 left the Dons languishing at their lowest-ever league position, prompting the club to cut ties with him after just five months in charge.
Now, with Crawley teetering on the brink of relegation following Rob Elliot’s dismissal, the club has turned once again to the man who previously led them through one of the most successful periods in their history. Lindsey was spotted in the directors’ box at Broadfield Stadium ahead of Elliot’s sacking, fuelling speculation which was confirmed overnight.
In his first spell with the West Sussex club, Lindsey guided Crawley away from relegation danger in 2023, before launching a remarkable promotion campaign the following season. That run culminated in an emphatic 8-1 aggregate win over MK Dons in the play-offs and a 2-0 victory against Crewe Alexandra at Wembley, securing the club’s historic rise to League One.
His departure in September 2024 came after a strong start to the new campaign, with wins against Blackpool and Cambridge. However, the opportunity at MK Dons proved short-lived and turbulent.
“We are very excited to welcome Scott back to Crawley Town,” said chairman Preston Johnson. “We all love the culture and commitment he brings to the Club and the game. We’re striving for success at the highest levels of English football and to strengthen relationships with our fans and the broader community. Our lead investors are committed to a long-term vision, and Scott Lindsey is essential to that.”
Lindsey is set to attend training on Friday and take his place in the dugout for Saturday’s clash. Meanwhile, the club has announced the departures of Louis Storey, Anthony Sweeney, and Steve Hafner from the coaching staff, thanking them for their contributions.
Writer’s View
Lindsey’s return to Crawley is as much about unfinished business as it is about restoring belief. Despite a tough stint at MK Dons, his reputation in Crawley remains intact – a rare feat in football. His strong rapport with supporters, coupled with a proven track record at the club, could be exactly what’s needed to reignite their fight for survival. If anyone can turn things around, it’s the man who’s already defied the odds once before in RH11.
