Mickey Lewis admits losing Tom Newey to suspension is a blow, but the Oxford United caretaker manager has no problems with the full back’s approach.

Newey will miss tomorrow’s trip to Morecambe in Sky Bet League Two and the game at Rochdale next weekend after receiving a tenth booking of the season.

The 31-year-old was penalised for a feisty reaction to a high challenge from former United midfielder Adam Chapman in Tuesday’s 3-2 defeat at Newport County.

It leaves the side short for two big games, but Lewis thinks bans are an occupational hazard for players like the left back.

He said: “He reacted to a challenge, but overall his bookings have been for tackles and challenges.

“In the modern game you see anywhere in the league if you have anyone that puts tackles in, he is going to get suspended.

“Especially if you’re a defender the last thing you need is getting a booking for dissent, because it’s easy enough to get a yellow card now anyway.

“I just think with Tommy, he’s a competitive player and we’re going to miss him.

“It’s bad timing with other players being out as well, but he’s as disappointed as anybody.”