YORK City assistant manager Neil Cox has backed FC Halifax Town to reach the Vanarama National League play-offs this season, and expects a tough challenge for the Minstermen on Saturday.

Cox’s side welcome Halifax to the LNER Community Stadium (5.30pm) for the live match to be shown on TNT Sport, with the visitors currently contesting within the play-off positions.

The City assistant expects a tough challenge for his side, but hopes York’s return to home soil after back-to-back away matches can provide a boost to the players.

“I think Halifax will be looking to be in the play-offs this year,” Cox told BBC Radio York.

“They’re really good, they’re organised in their shape, they play good football.

“It’s going to be a tough game for us, they’re on a bit of a run as well which is good for them but not for us.

“We’re at home, on the TV and we’ve done alright at home recently and have played quite well recently.

“We’re back from our travels and enjoy playing at home, so we’ll be looking for a win.”

Cox also lauded the City supporters after so many away matches in recent weeks, and hopes they can continue to support the club.

“The fans that travelled the other night were excellent, and the support that we’ve been given since coming into the football club is excellent.

“We need them to back us as much as they can, we’re in a difficult situation at the minute.

“But we’ve come to a home game, the last game before the FA Cup and hopefully we get a win.

“A performance would be nice, a win would be great before sending them off for the FA Cup, as everyone likes the magic of the FA Cup.”