PREPARATIONS have already begun for next season, Steve Watson has said, after York City’s 2020/21 campaign was brought to a premature close last week.

On Friday evening, the FA’s Alliance Committee ratified the results of the National League’s resolutions vote to end the season at Step 2 - and put the kibosh on any subsequent competition that could have resulted in promotion.

York, who backed both continuing the season and introducing a secondary competition, have expressed their disappointment but now look forward with manager Watson.

He told the club: “Let me start by thanking you for your support in what has been the most challenging 12 months that most of us have ever endured.

“I can promise you that the club is already preparing for next season with the same single goal that has eluded us in this crazy year - promotion to the National League.

“So let’s look forward with hope and positivity to a new stadium, a new season and most importantly, a chance to see yourselves back to where you belong watching your team again.

“I for one am very excited about the future of YCFC.”