YORK City manager Jackie McNamara has welcomed news that tomorrow's pre-season opponents Bolton Wanderers are going to make it tough.

Phil Parkinson, who quit Bradford City to take over as Bolton's manager this summer, has indicated that his first team will be on duty at Bootham Crescent.

That could spell trouble for the Minstermen - who were beaten 6-0 at home by Middlesbrough only two weeks ago - however, McNamara is looking forward to the challenge.

"I believe they are bringing their first team - but that is better for us, as far as I am concerned," he said.

"For me, it will be great to check and see where we are from that first game against Middlesbrough. We are improving our passing and fitness, defending as a team, and working hard as a team. So I want to test them against Bolton's best."

Since suffering that heavy defeat by Middlesbrough, York have notched consecutive 3-0 wins against Stalybridge Celtic and (behind closed doors) Blackburn Rovers.

Franklyn Clarke's arrival took the total number of summer signings to 18 this week and, inevitably, those players need time to gel.

"They had only been with each other for a week when we played that first game," recalled McNamara. "Now I can see a difference in how they are getting on. Now they are moving the ball quickly and getting to know each other's games and defending well from the back to the front. It's all about making sure we are ready for the new season."

McNamara is hoping to run the rule over a trialist goalkeeper tomorrow and is also close to finalising a deal for defender Lanre Oyebanjo who has been under-going medicals this week.