LANRE OYEBANJO has signed for Crawley Town.

The right-back, who spent three years at York City, turned down a contract offer from the Minstermen to join the League One outfit, who finished mid-table last season, on a two-year deal.

Oyebanjo swept the major prizes at the inaugural York City Player of the Year Awards at York Racecourse last month following the club’s run to the play-offs - including taking the prestigious Billy Fenton Clubman of the Year Award as well as being named Players’ Player of the Year.

But the out-of-contract 24-year-old had expressed a desire to return closer to his family in London and the one-time youth player at West Ham United has opted to join former Aston Villa boss John Gregory at the Broadwood Stadium.

Oyebanjo scored City’s second goal in the FA Trophy final against Newport at Wembley two years ago and was a key part of ex-manager Gary Mills’ side that achieved promotion back to the Football League with a 2-1 victory over Luton Town in the Conference play-off final.

He made a total of 101 appearances for the Minstermen, scoring two goals.

The player told the Reds’ website: “I’m delighted to be a Crawley player. It’s a wrench to leave York because the club and fans were fantastic and I really enjoyed my time there.

“Crawley are an ambitious club and I’m looking forward to testing myself at League One level.

“I feel I can make a big impression here and I’m looking forward to the start of pre-season training in three weeks.”

Gregory added: “Lanre will be a terrific signing for us. He is a real athlete and an excellent defender.”

Sophie Hicks, York City’s communications and community director, said: “We are obviously disappointed Lanre is not staying.

“He had indicated to us that he had a desire to play in League One and that he also wished to move closer to his family in London, so it is not surprising he has opted for a move to Crawley Town.

“Lanre has been a great player and ambassador for York City Football Club and we sincerely wish him the very best for his future career and thank him for the great contribution he made during his three seasons at the club.”