York City have been hit by a major blow with striker Paul Robinson ruled out for a month.

The forward returned to training last week from his hamstring injury only to break down shortly before the ill-fated visit of Forest Green.

Now, new City boss Viv Busby has been told that Robinson will not return to action until just before Christmas.

However, Robinson and club captain Steve Davis are City's only casualties as they bid to bounce back from a crippling sick-list.

Davis is still on schedule for a festive return to action.

The 36-year-old underwent hip surgery last month on a problem that has seen him sidelined since September 11. But he is making steady progress and believes he is on track for his scheduled return over the Christmas period - in time for the North Yorkshire derbies with Scarborough.

He said: "It's not too bad. I had the operation and I am back in the gym and getting on with the rehabilitation. I'm due to see the specialist again on Friday to get an update on how things are progressing.

"I'm hoping to get back around Christmas or New Year time but it's hard to tell without knowing from the experts. I'm up and moving around anyway and getting some exercise to try and get my strength back."

But however quick he makes it back in the fold, it will not be soon enough to help save Chris Brass' neck as manager, and he spoke of his frustration of having to watch from the sidelines while the on-pitch form deteriorated.

"It's murder being on the sidelines," he said. "I'm disappointed from Chris' point of view because he brought me to the club to help him and I want to try and help the club move towards its goals but with my injury that hasn't been possible.

"It's one of those unfortunate things being on the sidelines when results haven't gone the way you want them to."

claire.hughes@ycp.co.uk

Updated: 10:28 Friday, November 12, 2004