YORK City have announced that the money raised by the Vice Presidents Association will be used to support youth players stepping up into the first-team squad.

By late June, the Vice Presidents Association had raised £30,000 as it looked to support the club's "squad development" during the coronavirus pandemic.

After discussions with manager Steve Watson as a club board meeting, it was decided that the money should be used to develop the progress of youth team players making the jump into the first-team environment.

In a statement on the club's website, Richard Adams, the Vice Presidents Association chairman and a York director, said: "Following discussions with Steve Watson at a recent board meeting, we have agreed to use the money raised to support and develop the members of the youth team who will be stepping up and being active members of the first team squad.

"The money will cover their development, wages, and expenses over the forthcoming season.

"The club is keen to develop and hopefully improve the young talent we currently have at the club, coaching and developing their skills around the first team squad.

"On behalf of the Vice Presidents, I would like to thank all those who donated to the Crowdfunding Appeal.

"With the help of the donations, the Club could find the next young talent to come through the academy system."

Elsewhere, York head physiotherapist Ian Gallagher has left the club after three seasons.

Nicknamed 'Buster', he said: “I’m excited but at the same time gutted about leaving York. They will be the first result I look out for and (I) will come to games whenever I can. I just want to say thank you and good luck.”