AFC Telford won't replace Josh Ashby

Oxford United recalled the 19-year-old back to the Kassam Stadium, after injuries in the club's midfield.

But Smith feels the emergence of fellow midfielder Jake Hibbs, who is on a month's loan deal from FC Halifax Town, will serve to soften the blow.

Smith said: "Josh is a good player and he's done well for us in spells. His deal was up after today's game with Alfreton Town.

"They've had injuries and that's why they've had him back. Losing a loanee like Josh doesn't free up any room for us at all in case of funds.

"We're still in the process of cutting the squad rather than the other way around."

Hibbs made an eye-catching debut last week against Boston United, impressing in the opening period before being shown a second yellow card with 35 minutes to play.

Smith added: "Jake has been fine and straight back at it. He's not worried about what happened.

"He just wants to get back to playing and doing well for the club. "He's been excellent for us over the week."

The return of the versatile Lucas Dawson from suspension has handed Smith a further boost.

That's ahead of a week where the Bucks travel to FC United of Manchester on Tuesday night. He was sent off in the 4-0 defeat to Harrogate Town last month.

The Bucks boss said: "Jake is still available for FC United. He will miss Corby Town next week. But we have Lucas back which has been a big boost to me.

"He's looked really good in training and is ready to come and fight for a place."

Former Stoke City academy man Dawson, 21, was one of the first players Smith and Larry Chambers brought to the New Bucks Head after taking over in late August.

He filled in at right-back on his debut at Gloucester City, with Smith adding: "Lucas is a midfielder by trade. It's good to have him back."