York City boss Terry Dolan has hailed the contribution of Nick Richardson in the Minstermen's red revival.

As revealed late yesterday Richardson has been rewarded with a new deal that will keep him at Bootham Crescent until the end of the season.

The former Chester, Halifax and Cardiff midfielder was handed a one-month contract after linking up with the Minstermen in mid-February.

The 33-year-old's four starts have coincided with City's unbeaten run of four games and Dolan has now moved quickly to tie Richardson to the club until the end of the season.

The Minstermen manager admitted Richardson's vast experience of lower League football had played a crucial role in City's recent upturn in fortunes.

"His experience has been vital and he has gone about his business with undue fuss," said a delighted Dolan, who singled Richardson out for praise after Tuesday night's 1-0 win over Southend.

As he looked forward to tomorrow's trip to Mansfield, Dolan admitted City's last four results had gone as well as he could have hoped for.

But he warned against complacency, citing as quickly as City have improved they can just as quick come unstuck again.

"In the space of two weeks Shrewsbury have picked up quite a few points to move out of the bottom area while Barnet have been dragged into it," he explained.

Dolan added: "You are only as good as your next game.

"The points that we have picked up will prove even more vital if we can get some more in the immediate future."

For tomorrow's trip to Field Mill, Dolan will make just one addition to the squad that sealed City's first home win of 2001 with the midweek victory over Southend.

Graham Potter, out for a month with an ankle injury, is recalled.

Whether the former England Under-21 international will start however Dolan has yet to decide.

Following injuries to Wayne Hall, Neville Stamp and Potter, Marc Thompson played at left-wing back against the Shrimpers.

Although not naturally left-footed, Thompson filled the void well on Tuesday night and Dolan in any case may decide against bringing Potter back so soon.

The former Stoke City player is short of match practice having played just 45 minutes for the reserves in midweek.

"We haven't had to change the team too much over the last four games and it has helped give us stability," said Dolan.

Updated: 11:09 Friday, March 09, 2001