Keith Curle today saluted stand-in skipper Michael Raynes for leading the Blues to victory at the end of a controversial week.

With Danny Grainger sidelined, Raynes took the armband for the 2-1 win against Yeovil.

That came after the defender's character had been questioned by Luton boss Nathan Jones, despite Raynes' red card at Kenilworth Road being overturned.

Jones refused to retract his opinion that Raynes' challenge in that game had been "cowardly".

And Curle - who wants to discuss a new contract with the centre-half - has again stood up for the 29-year-old.

"I think I've read some more quotes from their [Luton's] manager saying how he didn’t speak about other players," Curle said.

"Well, you have. You called my captain for Saturday a coward. I'm saying you're wrong.

"I've got a lot of time for Michael not only as a footballer that's developing, and improving, and wanting to listen and learn, but also a character.

"He's an honest lad, a very honest competitor. You won't get less than everything he's got, and that's pleasing.

"He's something this football club can build on."

Along with Raynes, Curle wants to open "formal" talks with Grainger, Luke Joyce, Mark Gillespie and Jason Kennedy.

Midfielder Joyce has already indicated that he would be keen to extend his stay with the Blues.

All five players' contracts are up in the summer.