RORY McArdle admits he has learned a harsh lesson from his first City red card.

The uncompromising centre half was sent off for only the second time in his career last month at Oldham.

That cost McArdle his ever-present record in the team – he had played every minute of the season up to that point.

He also found himself on the bench against Halifax last weekend as Phil Parkinson kept faith with Alan Sheehan in the middle.

McArdle, who is hoping to return at Preston this afternoon, said: "Sitting watching the game isn't a good place to be and it was frustrating.

"But it's happened now and it's how you react to it. If that experience happens again, you don't make stupid tackles.

"If you want to do well at the club, it's important that everyone realises that their place in the team is not guaranteed. Otherwise people become comfortable.

"It shows that if anyone is not on their toes or misses games for whatever reason, there's somebody else chomping at the bit to get in."

McArdle was given his marching orders after picking up a second booking for a late lunge on Oldham striker Jabo Ibehre. His only previous dismissal was four years ago for Aberdeen against St Johnstone.

Parkinson was furious with his defender afterwards and McArdle could understand the manager's reaction.

He said: "I was as frustrated with myself as he was. As soon as I did it, I thought 'why?'.

"It was one of those games. We were getting frustrated and I'm sure I'm not the first person to make a tackle you shouldn't have done – and I won't be the last.

"But if I'm ever in that scenario again, I'll know it's easier to remain on your feet and stay with your man instead of diving in."