YORK City boss Gary Mills is becoming a surprise fan of three-man defences.

Mills built his reputation on the success of his 4-3-3 system during his last spell in charge of the Minstermen, which peaked with the double-Wembley winning campaign of 2011/12.

But he has fielded 3-5-2 and 3-4-3 formations during City’s last two outings – draws against Sutton and Eastleigh - and is likely to persist with the same defensive make-up for today’s home clash against Dagenham.

“I’m getting to quite like it (three at the back) and it’s something we are going to stick with for now, even though I didn’t think it was something I’d be doing this early at the club or ever as a manager,” Mills reasoned.

The City boss has also hailed the performances of senior players in new positions following the tactical switch with midfielders Yan Klukowski and Simon Heslop being converted into a centre half and wing-back respectively.

“With Yan before, I saw a player who wasn’t getting around the park, was coming off second best and was losing his enthusiasm for the game, but I know he reads the game well and is a good size and a good passer of the ball,” Mills pointed out. “Sometimes, when you’re a certain age, you need a change.

“He’s not looked back since we’ve moved him there two weeks ago and, whether it’s been in training or games, he’s stood out every time. Likewise, Simon Heslop was moved to left-wing back at Eastleigh and did well and scored a goal.

“He probably didn’t see himself as a wing-back, but he’s got good energy and gets up and down well, so has done a good job there. We’re looking at the squad to see how we can get more out of them and Yan and Simon are two good examples of that.”

Teenage midfielder Charlie Wardle, meanwhile, has been released by the club.