JACK MCKAY is likely to go straight into Sunday's squad - and John Askey is keen to see what the new signing will bring to York City's attack.

Signed on a free transfer from Curzon Ashton earlier in the week, McKay will be deployed as a counter-weight to fellow new recruit and wide-man Remy Longdon.

That will give the Minstermen some much-needed pace, Askey believes, and something to get the supporters excited. With Kurt Willoughby and Clayton Donaldson, it gives York more options going forward.

City's new-look attack could be on display as early as Sunday, when York play at Bradford Park Avenue in National League North.

"When I came in, I said we didn't have any natural wide-men," Askey said.

"Hopefully he adds another dimension with Remy on the other side.

"Both can play either side. It's good because during the game they can switch over, and we've got Kurt and Clayton.

"It gives us options.

"I've always had natural wingers.

"Pace is one thing that was lacking when I came in and I've been able to do something about it.

"Hopefully it's attractive to watch.

"We haven't scored enough goals so hopefully we can sort that."

York are travelling to West Yorkshire without long-term injury concerns Olly Dyson and Michael Woods; the suspended Matty Brown; Josh King, who suffered a broken leg this week in training; and Mackenzie Heaney, who is out with Covid.

Paddy McLaughlin could return after hamstring trouble kept him out of last weekend's trip to Matlock.

With centre-backs King and Brown both absent (the latter until the reverse fixture against Bradford on January 2), Askey has been working to find a defensive partner for Sean Newton at the heart of City's backline.

Asked about how to replace King, Askey said wryly: "Good question.

"We've worked on stuff. I won't divulge who but we've got to play someone there.

"(Wright) is an option. He's strong in midfield and he's a miss when he's not in midfield. That's the only downside. We would prefer him to play in midfield.

"We also have the option to go with three at the back.

"Sam Fielding has played there before."

On the injury itself, Askey continued: "It was something out of nothing. He fouled Harrison, and I was more concerned about Harrison.

"You always feel for them, especially the younger ones.

"He had an opportunity to get in the team with Browny missing. I thought he did well on Saturday after being out for so long.

"Sometimes a break isn't bad as ligament damage.

"He's not had an operation. As long as it gets realigned and set right, he should make a full recovery."

There is no word as yet on what on-loan Mark Beck will be doing once his short-term deal from Harrogate Town is up on January 3.

"I'm sure Mark will be seeing what other options he's got," added Askey. "But we'll see how he goes over the Christmas period."