Two Grimsby Players Who Could Cause Problems for Crawley
Crawley Town begin their 2025/26 League Two campaign this Saturday (August 2) with a challenging trip to Lincolnshire-based side Grimsby Town, who will be looking to build on last season's near miss.
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The Mariners narrowly missed out on a play-off spot last term, finishing ninth and just two points adrift of the top seven.
David Artell has overseen the arrival of eight new players, as well as nine departures, as he aims to challenge for promotion once again.
As Crawley prepare for a tough opening test on the road, here are two Grimsby players who could pose the biggest threat at Blundell Park.
George McEachran
Last season, McEachran started 44 of a possible 46 League Two matches, with his consistent performances earning him Grimsby's Player of the Year award. The 24-year-old primarily operates as a deep-lying playmaker, orchestrating attacks with short passes and excelling at maintaining possession under pressure.
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Similar to Jay Williams, his ability to read the game from midfield allows him to intercept passes and disrupt opposition play, making him a key figure in both defensive transitions and building attacks from the back.
McEachran, who was part of the England U17 squad that won the World Cup in India in 2017, is known to commit fouls occasionally and has a tendency to shoot from distance. Last season, he scored twice and picked up seven yellow cards.
The 23-year-old began his career in Chelsea's academy at the age of nine, spending 13 years with the West London club. He was an unused substitute in Chelsea's 2019 Europa League final victory over Arsenal and spent time on loan at SC Cambuur and MVV Maastricht in the Netherlands.
The former Cobham graduate then moved to Swindon Town in February 2023 and made 58 appearances for the Robins before his release in June 2024.
Jaze Kabia
Jaze Kabia is an Irish forward known for his versatility, speed, and technical ability. The 24-year-old had a standout campaign last season with Truro City, where he scored 17 goals and provided 11 assists as the Cornish side lifted the National League South title.
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Primarily operating as a winger, he has also demonstrated adaptability by performing in deeper roles when required. His agility and quick acceleration make him a constant threat on the flanks, capable of taking on defenders and delivering crosses into the box.
Having been handed the number nine shirt by manager Artell, it seems likely that he will play a more central attacking role for the Mariners, who will look to utilise his speed on the break.
Kabia's strong right foot allows him to cut inside and create goal-scoring opportunities, while his work rate ensures he contributes defensively when needed. His impressive performances highlight his attacking prowess and potential to make an impact at higher levels.
Kabia began his senior career with Cobh Ramblers before moving to Shelbourne, where he scored on his debut and contributed to the club's League of Ireland First Division title win.
He later moved to Scotland with Livingston, making his Premiership debut against Celtic and gaining further experience through a series of loan spells.