Oxford United striker Tom Craddock says he won’t be stepping up to take any penalties from now on after his row with midfielder Peter Leven during the 2-0 win against Northampton Town.

The pair, who travel to training and room together, clashed after the U’s – 1-0 up thanks to Craddock with five minutes to go – were awarded a penalty.

Leven usually takes the spot-kicks, but Craddock wanted to add to his tally, having been out injured for most of the season.

And the former Middlesbrough man wished he hadn’t bothered after his spot-kick found the car park rather than the back of the net.

“I missed it and I won’t be taking the next one,” said Craddock. “Pedro (Leven) will be taking the next one and I hope he scores it.

“There is passion there and we have got players that want to take responsibility, and it’s better that you have two players wanting to take a penalty than not.

“I think it was a heat-of-the-moment thing.

“We are good friends off the field as well and we had a bit of an argument in the dressing room afterwards, but it wasn’t anything serious.

“It’s all cleared up now and we’re best of pals again. That’s the best way to do it – to get it out of the way as soon as possible.”

Meanwhile, Craddock was relieved to get on the scoresheet again in only his second full game of the season after recovering from a knee injury.

And he hopes to get among the goals when the U’s travel to AFC Wimbledon on Boxing Day.

He added: “It’s been a long road to recovery and hopefully the injury is finished now and I can get on with the season and enjoy it.

“And, hopefully, we can be successful. I want to do as well as I can and if we get the wins, then that’s the main thing.

“Three points at Wimbledon would be a nice Christmas present.