MICKEY Lewis says the form of rookie defender Tareiq Holmes-Dennis has surpassed his expectations, allowing Oxford United to loan out Tom Newey to Northampton Town yesterday.

Holmes-Dennis, who turns 19 today, had not played a minute of competitive senior football when he joined on loan from Charlton Athletic earlier this month.

But the left back has been a big hit, on and off the pitch, in the three games since arriving and will keep his place in the side for tomorrow’s Sky Bet League Two home game against Wycombe Wanderers.

Despite Holmes-Dennis being highly-rated, Lewis, United’s assistant head coach, has been surprised by how well the youngster has settled in.

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“He was good in training and came highly recommended by a lot of good people, but I’ve got to say yes,” he said.

“For a young lad, he’s been great and is showing real maturity – even around the training ground in everything he does.

“You’ve got to give credit to the lad, he’s very level-headed and is very popular straight away with all the boys.

“I think he’s been outstanding.

“He’s played three games in a week having not played any league football, but he’s taken to it brilliantly.”

The initial agreement with Charlton was only for a month, but United are already looking into prolonging his stay.

The chances of an extension would appear good, with head coach Michael Appleton agreeing to loan Newey out to the Cobblers, managed by former U’s boss Chris Wilder, until January 3.

The 31-year-old was one of three players dropped in the wake of the 5-1 defeat at Cambridge United three weeks ago, after which Holmes-Dennis was signed.

Lewis said: “It’s not a slur against Tommy, it’s just differences of opinions.

“The manager and the coaching staff have got no problem with Tommy and we wish him well.

“He’s a good lad and has always conducted himself really well.

“Chris (Wilder) knows him very well, so I hope he does really well there.”

Newey, who has made 61 appearances for United, felt the arrival of Holmes-Dennis opened the door for him to leave.

He said: “It became apparent towards the end of last week that Oxford brought someone in on loan in my position and I was free to look elsewhere.

“I heard of this opportunity and I’ve worked with Chris before. It’s something I jumped at and am looking forward to.”

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