MICKY CUMMINS has warned of Altrincham's attacking threat - but believes a quick, front-foot start from York City can help counter that.

Former York midfielder Elliott Durrell forms part of the front quartet, to which he has contributed four goals in four games. Cummins acknowledged the potent Durrell's ability but insisted it is more important for York to focus on themselves.

Altrincham have emerged triumphant from their two previous visits to Bootham Crescent this month - winning 1-0 both times in the FA Cup and FA Trophy - while York are looking to make it a National League North double over Alty, whom they beat 3-1 at Moss Lane on the first day of the season.

The Greater Manchester side most recently beat Spennymoor Town 4-1 at home, with Durrell netting the third-minute opener and 14-goal top scorer Jordan Hulme scoring a brace either side of a Thomas Hannigan goal.

Cummins commented: "They play a 4-2-3-1, they've got good attacking options, solid at the back. They play through you rather than around you.

"They've got talented players. Give them time and opportunities to get on the ball, they'll punish you, as you've seen with the positive result at home to Spennymoor last week.

"It will be a different proposition here. I believe they set up less adventurous away from home.

"We've got to counteract that, look to start really quickly and on the front foot.

"They've got (Jordan) Hulme up top, (Josh) Hancock in behind and (Daniel) Mooney and Durrell inside on the wing.

"They are quite solid at the back.

"They do move the ball quickly.

"Give them time and opportunity, they're good footballers.

"But I'm sure once we get on the front foot, get up and press, we'll make a game of it.

In contrast to his flying start at Altrincham, Durrell only found the net once for the Minstermen in the 10 appearances he made.

"There's a good player in there and he's producing now," Cummins added. "They have accommodated him in the formation they play.

"Good luck to Elliott. I'll shake his hand afterwards - well, elbow bump," he corrected lightheartedly, referencing guidelines which seek to limit contact and the spread of coronavirus. "We wished him all the best when he left. There's a talented boy in there but we've just got to worry about ourselves."

With football matches across the continent being called off and played behind closed doors because of the spread of Covid-19, there is the possibility of the National League North season ending in a similar fashion.

The club are operating on the guidance of the National League who, as of Thursday, have not issued any advice warning against crowds at matches.

Asked about the potential outcomes for the team, Cummins responded: "I think it's tough for everyone.

"Whatever the decision, it will be the right one.

"We're still waiting on a comment from the league.

"It's out of our hands.

"Though football is massively important to a lot of people, your health and your life is obviously more important.

"It'll be tough for us, we get that good support at home and away.

"You have to generate your own atmosphere but I'm sure the lads will respond and be professional about it."