MICKY CUMMINS has hailed Paddy McLaughlin’s return to the form, saying that the midfielder “come back a different animal”.

McLaughlin has started both of York City’s first two games this season, playing in a more advanced role behind new recruits Akil Wright and Michael Woods.

City have seen the rewards as a result, with the Northern Irishman scoring the opener in the 3-1 win over Chorley, having only scored once in 24 appearances last term.

“He’s a very good professional with a very good attitude and he’s probably one that the younger lads look to because of his attitude towards training,” said Cummins.

“(Last season) it just a loss of form for Paddy and I think he’s come back in great condition, as we’d expect, and with the ball he’s a lot more penetrative. He’s looking to play forwards and get in the box.

“I think it’s that reliability and confidence in the players around him that’s given him in that lift as well.

“Paddy has improved and come back a different animal and we’re not going to put the reins on him, we’re going to encourage him to carry on what he’s been doing because he’s getting a lot of success and with that the team are.”

Cummins and manager Steve Watson also appear to have plenty of options in the forwards too, with Jake Cassidy leading in the line alongside Olly Dyson at present. Harry Bunn showed his quality from the bench against Chorley, with ex-Salford and Halifax striker Jack Redshaw still to come into the fold.

“There’s loads of (forward) partnerships within that group,” added Cummins. “Jake leads the line really well, he does a lot of work that goes unnoticed. He roughs up centre-halves, he’ll run the line and hold the ball up.

“Olly played ever so well against Notts County and Warrington and there’s Jack to come in. They’re all talented footballers who do different roles within the team.

“Harry has played at a very good level and he’s getting fit again, having missed pre-season games. He’s going to be a slow burner who will be gradually integrated, possibly starting in the next few games. There’s certainly exciting players in that sharp end of the pitch.”