AFC Telford's Amari Morgan-Smith chomping at the bit after ban

Morgan-Smith, 28, was shown a straight red card for a late lunge on Jordan Richards in the 3-0 loss at Southport a few weeks ago.

He was hoping to return to the squad for today’s game against Leamington at the New Bucks Head (3pm), which Rob Edwards’ side went into third bottom in National League North.

“When you get suspended, it’s really frustrating. It’s not something I’m used to either so it was a bit strange,” said Morgan-Smith. “I want to repay the gaffer and my team-mates for not being part of it for three games as things may have gone a bit differently.

“I’m raring to go now, if selected, to help get the points on the board that we need.”

Morgan-Smith’s dismissal came in the closing stages at Haig Avenue.

Looking back on it, the former York City man believes he was a ‘little bit naive’.

“I see why the referee gave the red, it was one of those where it could have gone either way as the lad has got straight back up,” said Morgan-Smith. “I’ve served my three-match ban now and it was probably a little bit naive from me, being one of the older heads in the squad.

“It was a bit of frustration from me, I’ve learned from it and I just have to make sure nobody else in the squad does it now.”

On how the mood has been in the camp over the past few weeks, he added: “The mood in the squad is good.

“The mood from the gaffer and the coaching staff, they get the players going.

“We are raring to go again. It’s a lively camp.”