Manager Alan Little is now ensnared in a game of patience as he seeks to reinforce York City's squad.

Exploratory talks have been held between the City boss and several potential targets for next season.

But Little was not expecting any firm feedback for at least the next month as players and clubs play the first waiting game of sifting through post-Bosman offers.

"Everyone wants to wait," insisted Little. "Players want to wait and so do clubs. Nobody wants to do anything - just yet. On either side nobody wants to commit themselves.

"Players want to hang on to see if they can get a better offer elsewhere. If clubs come in too early they may end up paying too much."

He envisaged 'seeing some action' towards the middle of June', so for now it was just a question of sounding out possible recruits.

"It's important to get some groundwork going before making firm commitments and let possible players know York City is interested in them.

"I have spoken to a couple of players and I will be getting back in touch with them over the new few weeks."

City's priorities are a goalkeeper in the wake of the release of Mark Samways on 'medical grounds' and a striker after the jettisoning of Marco Gabbiadini and Gary Bull.

But there may have to be a re-assessment should any of Wayne Hall, Gary Himsworth or Steve Bushell turn down the new deals offered to them.

Meanwhile, City have agreed to a full senior visit and friendly at Pocklington to officially open the new sports and social club in the town on Saturday, July 11. It will be City's first competitive outing of the summer.

"We will bring the entire first-team squad through and play them in what will hopefully be an enjoyable day for us and for Pocklington," said Little

City's pre-season programme is all but complete, save for a couple of reserve team outings still to be arranged.

Fixture-list:

Tuesday, July 7 - return to training;

Saturday, July 11 - at Pocklington; Saturday/Sunday,

July 18-19 - four-team tournament at Bootham Crescent featuring City, Barnsley, Scarborough and Airdrie;

Friday, July 24 - at Scarborough (North Riding Senior Cup);

Monday, July 27 - at home to Huddersfield Town;

Wednesday, July 29 - at home to Middlesbrough (Alan Little testimonial);

Monday, August 3 - at Guiseley; Saturday,

August 8 - start of Nationwide League 1998-99 season.

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