MIDFIELD signing Lee Fowler has been hit in the pocket in a new Town crackdown on discipline.
The 20-year-old was sent-off for the second time this season in Saturday's 1-1 draw against Oxford United at the McAlpine and already faces a two-match ban in the New Year.
Now, Fowler has been carpeted by the club and will be fined the maximum possible under FA rules which, for a second offence, is 75% of his week's wages.
It's a clear indication that manager Peter Jackson is losing patience with his squad over the raft of cards they've been shown this season - nine reds and 50 yellows is one of the worst records in the country.
And the manager - who was preparing his squad today for the Boxing Day trip to Darlington - explained he is ready to take a tough line.
"We need to crack down on things, especially with the way referees are these days, and I've come down particularly hard on Lee Fowler," said Jackson.
"I have fined him heavily - the maximum which is allowed by the FA for a second offence - because it was a stupid and needless thing to do.
"There was only a minute to go, he was already on one yellow card and he just flew into a tackle when we were in no danger whatsoever.
"The other thing Lee has to realise is that we have got Jonathan Worthington now very close to fitness - he will travel with us to Darlington - and Tony Carss on the way back, so when he's suspended against Doncaster and Cambridge it could jeopardise his place in the side."
Jackson is particularly disappointed because he signed Fowler from Coventry City after an extended loan to be the kingpin of his midfield operation.
The Welsh Under 21 international was given the captaincy at Mansfield, a role which Jackson believes he could fill permanently in the future, but he has never been able to stay out of referees' notebooks and will be suspended for the third time in the campaign.
Unless he is reined back, Fowler could face an FA hearing later in the season about his conduct - something which the manager is keen to avoid.
"We have had words with the lads about the disciplinary situation and, while some cards are unavoidable, others are not - like Lee's against Oxford," he said.
Jackson has described Worthington's recovery from hernia surgery as "remarkable."
Wingman John Thorrington (ankle) was also with the senior squad in yesterday's session and could soon be challenging for a place.
"It's only a couple of weeks since Worthy had his operation and yet he's looking very good," said the manager. "That is great news and a big boost."
Jackson believes defenders David Mirfin and Ian Hughes will be back in training next week as they continue to progress under treatment from physio Lee Martin.
