York City manager Terry Dolan is poised to land former Reading trialist Chris Smith on a permanent basis, the Evening Press understands.

Sources at the Madejski Stadium claim the central defender will be snapped up by Dolan when he returns from holiday this week.

Smith, 19, impressed the City chief at the end of last season when he made two appearances for the Minstermen reserves at the end of last season.

Smith also scored in the 3-1 defeat at home to Wrexham in his final outing.

Speaking after that match, Dolan admitted he had been impressed by the Derby-born defender and although he could not offer the youngster terms then would continue to monitor his progress closely.

Updated: 11:24 Monday, May 21, 2001