DAVE Merris has enjoyed his temporary switch to York City's left wing so much he wants to stay there.

The 23-year-old left-back has been a revelation since filling a more advanced role, playing in the position in every one of caretaker boss Viv Busby's five games in charge.

Busby opted to play Merris further forward for the first time at Woking when fellow left-footers Bryan Stewart and Shaun Smith were both injured.

It was regarded as an experimental measure at the time but now seems like a tactical masterstroke and Merris is in no mood for an imminent return to defence.

He said: "I've really enjoyed playing on the wing and I'm starting to thoroughly enjoy my football again. When I was younger I started up front and slowly went backwards, playing on the wing and then ending up at left-back but I've always really liked going forward.

"At Rotherham I was just a left-back and that was it. Then I went to Harrogate where it was mainly the same. I did have a few games on the wing there but only for short spells.

"Now, I'd like to stay there as long as possible."

Merris has been a regular creator of chances since moving further up the field and mesmerised the home crowd, as well as three bemused Crawley Town defenders, when getting out of a tight spot near the corner flag to provide a brilliant cross for Andy Bishop's goal in the 3-1 win.

But the modest Merris played down his intricate flash of skill that lifted Popular Stand regulars out of their seats.

He said: "I'm not one for tricks. I'm your basic 'out-and-out, hit it and run past them' wide man really but I did enjoy that one even if it wasn't as special as everybody makes out.

"One of their lads just gave me a gap to go through and I went through it. There was none of that special Ronaldinho stuff involved."

Merris is also quick to praise the performances of teenage defender Sean Davies during the last five matches.

Davies, whose previous appearances for City have been in the centre of defence or as the left-sided member of a back three, was asked to play behind Merris at Woking and has occupied the full-back spot ever since.

Merris said: "I think Sean's done well so there's no reason to change it at the moment. He's an out-and-out defender and that's all he wants to do so he's a good person to have behind me.

"I know I can leave him to do the defending side of things and I can go forward although he can get past me as well on the odd occasion."

Merris also realises the return to fitness of teenage winger Stewart will increase the competition for the currently coveted left-wing role.

Stewart's return to the bench has created a friendly but healthy rivalry and Merris said: "I am hoping to try to keep him out. But I know Bryan can slot into that position so it keeps me on my toes."

Updated: 10:32 Thursday, December 23, 2004