YORK City Knights boss James Ford insists veteran Jonny Presley's playing days are far from over – despite bringing Halifax half-back Connor Robinson to the club effectively as his long-term replacement.

Ford has also backed scrum-half Harry Tyson-Wilson to lay claim for a shirt on his return from injury, predicting the coaching staff will face some "tough selection decisions" in the coming weeks.

Robinson, who joined this week from the Championship big guns on a two-and-a-half-year deal, appears likely to go straight into the team that visits arch-rivals Hunslet on Sunday, when the buoyant Knights will be looking for a sixth straight League One win.

Assuming young gun Liam Harris, who has been a revelation at stand-off since arriving on dual-registration from Hull KR, remains available, Presley will probably make way, despite notching a try in the comeback win over London Skolars last weekend.

The long-serving playmaker, who turns 33 next month, will then be able to focus again on his coaching duties – and also his upcoming wedding.

Nevertheless, Ford said: "His season is not over by any means – we will need him again.

"Jonny wanted to retire (last autumn) but out of respect to the club and the supporters he decided not to because we needed his guidance on the field.

"He's been really consistent and gives us a real solid foundation and I'm really grateful for his efforts."

Presley has played in seven of York's 13 games this term, initially when replacing the departed Danny Sowerby and more recently following the injury to Tyson-Wilson.

That has taken his number of York appearances in two spells at the club up to 128, with his try tally now standing at 48, which includes the Knights record of six in a game set in 2011.

Ford said: "On and off the pitch, I'm chuffed to bits we have got a person of that calibre at the club."

Meanwhile, Tyson-Wilson – who has sat out the last three matches after damaging knee ligaments in the win at Gloucestershire All Golds a month ago – was returning to light training this week but was not being considered for Sunday's match.

Ford said he was looking forward to having the 20-year-old left-footer back available.

"This weekend is too early," he explained. "We're hoping Harry will train this week and pick it up next week. He looks really strong, and he's got through his rehab' really well, but we aren't going to rush him back too early and risk a recurrence of the injury or making it worse.

"It will be great to bring him back into consideration. He's a good player and there's a lot of improvement in him."

Asked if Robinson, 22, will go straight into the team, Ford added: "We'll see how Connor trains but I haven't brought him in not to play.

"Half-back is a key position for us, so we'll see how the relationships are, but he's got enough ability to come into consideration. He needs a run of games to build confidence and build relationships."

Tyson-Wilson's impending return, though, will give the head coach headaches – especially if Championship leaders Hull KR allow Harris to stay on dual-reg indefinitely, although a recall is expected at some point.

Ford said: "I will pick the best two (half-backs) based on form. Liam Harris is playing to an outstanding level. Harry Tyson – there have been real positive signs around him. Jonny Presley has been really solid.

"I do believe Connor will come in and help to take the team to the next level. There will be some tough decisions to make."