Full-back Sean Newton has hailed AFC Telford United’s loan star Greg Mills, admitting: “It’s taken me a while to learn how to play with him!”

Mills, on loan from Derby until January, has been one of the Bucks’ stars in their strong first half of the Blue Square Bet North season.

And left-back Newton believes his improving understanding with the jet-heeled winger can only be good news for the Bucks.

“I’ve finally realised how to play with him,” said Newton. “It’s taken me two-and-a-half months to realise it but we’re getting to grips with each other.

“He’s a lot more direct than a lot of wingers I’ve played with. A lot of wingers go to the line then cut back but he always wants to take players on.

“We score goals from that so I’m just trying to back him up by being behind him for the option. He’s flying at the minute.

“We’re talking lots and it’s gone well in the last couple of games.”

Newton has been one of the first names on the team-sheet under boss Andy Sinton and has kept his place despite competition from Netan Sansara.

Former Walsall full-back Sansara, 21, signed non-contract terms with the Bucks but has as yet been unable to force his way into the first team squad.

“Netan’s got a good background and he’s played in League One quite a few times,” said Newton.

“I know that if I drop my game then he’s going to be straight in. But it’s better to have competition in every position.

“The gaffer’s said the shirt is mine to lose so I’ve just got to keep playing, keeping clean sheets and winning games.”

s Telford have been drawn away to Harrogate or Witton Albion in the first round of the FA Carlsberg Trophy. They replay tomorrow at Witton for the right to play host to the Bucks on Saturday, December 11.

By CHRIS HUDSON