The 23-year-old defender, who swapped the Galpharm for Glanford Park less than a fortnight ago, was given his marching orders by Greater Manchester referee Karl Evans after tripping Walsall’s Jabo Ibehre with only 10 minutes gone.

News of Mirfin’s dismissal slowly filtered through to Stan Ternent’s men at Colchester and Town’s midfield enforcer Jon Worthington admitted that he couldn’t resist the temptation to send a jovial text message to his former academy colleague.

He said: “I sent him a text after the game but he got a bit of a ribbing from all the lads!

“It was quite a shock to the lads that Mirf had got sent off. But he’s a strong character and I’m sure he will bounce back.”

The Iron snapped up Mirfin for an initial fee of £150,000 from Town, but the West Yorkshire club have included a 25 per cent sell on clause in the deal.

Mirfin, from Sheffield, made over 150 league appearances for the Terriers.

“David Mirfin has been a great servant to Huddersfield Town,” said Worthington.

“He spoke to the manager (Ternent) and between them they decided it was the right move for everyone involved.

“I wish Mirfin all the best and I’m sure he will do well at Scunthorpe.”
Competition for places appears to be increasing on a daily basis at Town, with Ternent bolstering his options in midfield even further this week by capturing Accrington playmaker Ian Craney.

Liverpudlian Craney, whose best mate in football is Town winger Gary Roberts, was contracted to Accrington until 2009 but the 26-year-old opted to step up a division.

Worthington said: “I’ve only seen him a couple of times in training but he looks a very good player.

“There is a lot of competition for places at the club, especially in midfield. Everyone has to play their best every game or they will be out of the side.”

Worthington was overlooked for a starting berth in Town’s opening-day draw with Stockport.

The Dewsbury-born ace was recalled for the Carling Cup fixture with neighbours Bradford and opened the scoring in Town’s 4-0 romp.
However, Worthington concedes he was stung by being given the cold shoulder for the first match.

“Obviously I was disappointed to miss out,” he said. “As a professional, you’re always disappointed when you’re left out.
“But I’m a determined player and I will fight for my place.”