Mickey Lewis has praised the efforts of the U’s reserves in Wednesday night’s display against Watford.

Although United’s second string went down to a 1-0 defeat against a lively Watford side, Tom Aldred heading in the second-half winner, first-team coach Lewis was delighted with the spirit of the players.

“Watford were a really good side and gave us a tough competitive game, which was just what we wanted,” said Lewis.

“It was probably not one of our better performances, but the most positive aspect was that Simon Clist has played 90 minutes.

“We had to work really hard and at the end there we nearly got a goal back.

“It’s always disappointing to lose a game of football, but I was pleased that we kept up our fitness levels right to the end.

“Simon is back training and has completed a full game, so he will be available for selection on Saturday.”