Cambridge United defender Jubril Okedina urged by head coach Garry Monk to use red card against Bolton Wanderers as a ‘learning curve’

Cambridge United head coach Garry Monk has urged Jubril Okedina to ‘learn’ from the red card that he received during Tuesday night’s 1-1 draw with Bolton Wanderers.

The centre-back was sent off in the 50th minute for an off-the-ball incident, with replays showing that he he had raised his hands to Bolton’s George Thomason.

Okedina will now miss United’s next three matches – starting on Saturday with the visit of Wigan Athletic in the second round of the FA Cup.

“The suspension kicks in straight away so he’ll miss the next three games,” said Monk.

“It’s one of those situations where he’ll learn from that. Even though it was a really soft one, with the letter of the law these days and the way they deal with those situations, it is what it is.

“I’ve spoken to Jibs and made sure it’s a learning curve for him.

“We’re obviously disappointed because from a player perspective Jibs has been excellent for us. To miss him for three games is not good but we’ll deal with it and keep moving forward.”

Writing on social media after his dismissal, Okedina said: “Sorry to the team and fans for letting my emotions get the better of me. Shout out to the team for still fighting while a man down.”

As well as the clash with Wigan, the 24-year-old will miss Cambridge’s upcoming League One encounters against Reading and Shrewsbury Town.

Okedina has made 16 appearances in all competitions for the U’s this season.