WAYNE'S world is one to watch for all aspiring youngsters, according to York City coach Adie Shaw.

City's veteran full-back Wayne Hall seems certain to earn a year's extension to his current three month deal after proving his fitness during pre-season.

The veteran defender had still to play under manager Terry Dolan until City's North Riding Senior Cup victory over Marske United last week after undergoing an operation at the end of last season on a troublesome heel.

Despite the arrival of Graham Potter as a rival for Hall's favoured left-back berth, he remains a key face in the club, said Shaw.

"Wayne Hall will always give 100 per cent whether it is a game at Wembley, a relegation battle, a pre-season friendly or even a kick-about on a school park" said Shaw, City's number two in command.

"Unfortunately, I think he is one of a dying breed now but if I am speaking to any of the young lads I always use 'Ginner'' as an example.

"He is an excellent professional, he looks after himself and has proved himself an excellent pro by staying in the game for such a long time.

"Hopefully, with a big crowd for his testimonial against Middlesbrough he will get everything he deserves."

Boro manager Bryan Robson has promised to bring a strong first-team squad to Bootham Crescent although the chances of World Cup and Euro 2000 winner Christian Karembeu appearing look slim.

The French midfielder arrives on Teesside on Monday and will link-up with Boro's other major new signing, Australian skipper Paul Okon, the former Bruges, Lazio and Fiorentina player.

Okon is almost certain to feature on Tuesday alongside the likes of Gary Pallister, Hamilton Ricard, Brian Deane, 'keeper Mark Schwarzer and England Under-21 striker Andy Campbell, brother of former York and Scarborough player Neil.

The player dubbed the 'next Maradona' is also likely to be on show. Teenage Argentinian Carlos Marinelli, signed by Robson last season, is one of 18 players named in the squad.

Middlesbrough (provisional): Schwarzer, Crossley, Fleming, Stamp, Vickers, Pallister, Cooper, Okon, Summerbell, Mustoe, Maddison, Ricard, Campbell, Deane, Armstrong, Gavin, O'Neill, Marinelli.

Ticket prices for the Middlesbrough match, kick-off 7.45pm, which is not all all-ticket, are: £8 adults and £5 concessions (juniors and pensioners) for seats in the main, stand, family stand and enclosure, and £7 and £4 for the terracing.

A report of today's game between City and Manchester United will be posted on the Evening Press internet site www.thisisyork.co.uk tonight.