WORKING harder is the only remedy for York City, John Askey believes, as they look to bounce back from midweek defeat tomorrow against Gateshead.

A limp City were soundly beaten 3-0 by Bradford Park Avenue on Tuesday night, a defeat which prompted chairman Jason McGill to issue an apology to fans, and one which stuck with York players going into training during the week.

On Saturday (3pm), York face another tricky task at the LNER Community Stadium when they host free-scoring National League North leaders Gateshead, who were dominant 2-0 winners over City earlier in the season in the North East.

"The main thing is lifting the players," Askey commented on his work during this week's training.

"Obviously everybody is disappointed about Tuesday's result.

"It's getting them to realise that it was one game, not the end of the world, and we have to move on to the next one.

"When I've looked back at the game, it's not through anybody not caring or giving up.

"One or two need to show for the ball better and there needed to be more quality in the final third.

"I don't think there's anything wrong with how we set up. We just need to be more ruthless when we're on top as much as we were.

"But at the end of the day, it wasn't good enough and we need to improve on that.

"There's only one thing you can do and that is work harder.

"There is no secret formula other than that.

"If it's not quite happening, you need to run a little bit harder, you tackle harder, you try and win more headers, and when you're on the ball, you have to show the composure to go with it.

"One thing you can't do is hold your hands up and pack in.

"Life is like that. Everybody has ups and downs. It's how you come through it that makes you as a person."

Akil Wright could be ready to return for York. The commanding central midfielder has missed out on City's last two games - both of which ended in 3-0 losses - with a thigh injury.

Fellow midfielder Paddy McLaughlin took a kick to a calf on Tuesday night and left the stadium on crutches but that was only precautionary, Askey explained.

Local lad Will Jarvis could also get a game. The attacker - once a York & District Schoolboys star - has signed on loan from Hull City on an initial one-month deal.

Meanwhile, in the stands, the club will be hoping to see some of the 1,000 York schoolchildren they have invited to watch the game for free.

"I think it's really important," Askey commented on the initiative. "You need youngsters coming to the game and to get used to coming.

"When they come, they bring their parents as well.

"You just want them to have a good time.

"It's a habit in football. You start to come and watch and you get hooked.

"That's what we want. It's a great stadium and a great facility for youngsters to come and watch a game of football.

"Hopefully one or two who come on Saturday become lifelong supporters of York City."