JAMES Ford has challenged his York City Knights squad to step up to the mark following Jordan Crowther's return to Wakefield.

The 19-year-old second row has been recalled from his loan spell by the Wildcats and goes straight into their squad for tomorrow night's Super League encounter with Wigan.

That represents a major blow for Ford ahead of Sunday's League One clash at Keighley Cougars – and the Super 8s.

The youngster may not figure for the Knights again this season, but the boss has urged his squad to "deal with it" and push on.

"It's so disappointing for us to see him recalled," Ford said. "He's a very good player and potentially even better than he already is.

"He's had a great season and there is certainly a lot of promise about him.

"If he keeps his head down and continues to work hard, which I'm sure he will, Wakefield could have a good little player on their hands.

"But we've got a good squad and we'll be able to cope. Brad Hey and Matty Dale have shown this year that they are more than capable of helping the team achieve our goals.

"This is what can happen in sport and we've got to deal with it.

"I'm very fortunate that I've got a player like Matty with his experience, or Brad with his athleticism to step into that position."