Hartlepool United v Sheffield United : Lowton will bounce back from red card shame – Morgan

The Chesterfield-born youngster was sent off in only his second start for the senior side after a late challenge on Cardiff City's Kevin Naughton during the first half of Sunday's 1-1 draw in Wales.

It means Lowton will miss tonight's first-round tie at Hartlepool through suspension as the Blades, who have signed Kyle Bartley from Arsenal on a season-long loan, look to progress.

United captain Morgan said: "Matt is not the type of lad to deliberately go out and try to hurt an opponent. He was distraught afterwards. I had a word and told him he has done fantastically well to get into the side and to carry on being a competitive player.

"With young players, it is about character as much as ability and Matt has both of those qualities. He can have a great career if he keeps on listening and learning.

"I don't think the sending off will affect his confidence. He is just upset to be missing games."

Manager Kevin Blackwell added: "The only problem with Matt's tackle was the timing, which was slightly late. But he will learn from that and there is no doubt in my mind that he has a big future in the game."

United travel to Hartlepool looking to banish memories of last season's Carling Cup when League Two Port Vale triumphed 2-1 in the first round at Bramall Lane. Captain Morgan added: "It is an important game because we want to go there and win to keep our good start to the season going.

"We are not taking anything for granted. We know how tough Cup ties like this can be. We saw that against Port Vale last season."

United are unlikely to field Bartley, manager Blackwell insisting the weekend meeting with Neil Warnock's QPR a more likely chance for the youngster's second bow for the club.

The Blades manager added: "It is a tough tie for us. My starting XI is going to be decent, it will have to be to get a win up there."

Last six games: Hartlepool United WWLDDD, Sheffield United LWDWWD.

Last time: Hartlepool United 2 Sheffield United 2; August 30, 1988; League Cup.

Referee: G Salisbury (Lancashire).