YORK City player chief Chris Brass learned today he will be suspended for the Minstermen's Yorkshire derby at Huddersfield Town.

The City boss was still waiting to hear this morning whether his appeal against the red card suffered at Carlisle United on the opening day of the season has been successful.

However, having cast their eyes over a video of the incident, in which Brass was wrestled to the floor by Carlisle striker Steve Livingston, the Football Association have now dismissed Brass's appeal.

Brass was sent-off for violent conduct but the City boss had always maintained his innocence with video evidence City had compiled appearing to back-up his claim.

Brass will begin his suspension on Saturday and will also miss Tuesday's home clash with Southend and the trip to Lincoln City on August 30.

Despite the suspension blow, the City boss at least has options for change.

Scott Jones came through 90 minutes of reserve team football yesterday as City's second string drew 1-1 with Scunthorpe United at Bootham Crescent.

Teenage defenders Gary Anderson and Sean Davies could also come into contention for the trip to Huddersfield after playing for the reserves while Leigh Wood has impressed when drafted into defensive roles in the first team.

However, hopes of added firepower have been dashed after Tranmere Rovers striker Paul Robinson was stretchered off during the clash with the Iron.

Robinson, who City were contemplating signing on a long-term loan from Prenton Park if he impressed, suffered an ankle injury as he scored City's equaliser.

The 19-year-old appeared to land awkwardly as he headed home on the hour mark, the goal cancelling out Andrew Parton's first-half opener for United.

Initial fears Robinson may have broken his ankle proved unfounded as the young striker later re-emerged to sit on the substitutes bench with an ice-pack strapped to his ankle.

City, who have permission to play Robinson in one more game, will have a clearer indication as to the seriousness of the injury today.

Brass, who admitted to being impressed by Robinson until his injury, told the Evening Press: "He has badly twisted his ankle and there is some swelling.

"It is unfortunate for the lad and unfortunate for us. Having got his goal it would have been nice to have seen him play with his confidence up."

Updated: 14:20 Thursday, August 21, 2003