No deal for Elam

The Minstermen boss said he “didn’t think it was right” to add to his assembled squad and so would not be offering a place to the 31-year-old, who was released by Exeter at the end of last season.

Elam played in City’s 1-1 draw against Leeds United – earning the chance to turn out against Middlesbrough last week – but Walker said he felt the winger would be too far behind the rest of the squad’s development.

“Lee Elam will not be joining us,” he said. “At this moment in time, I didn’t think it was right to add anyone to our squad.

“I think we’ve worked with 21 from the beginning and, at the moment, all 21 are vying for that August 9 (Blue Square Premier clash at Crawley).

“I just think he’d be too far behind so, at the moment, Lee Elam won’t be joining us.”

Walker was pleased with his side’s attacking play during last night’s 2-2 draw with Barnsley, but was slightly concerned about the two sloppy goals which handed the Tykes a share of the pre-season spoils. He also admitted he had no idea of what his starting 11 would be when the season kicks off.

“I’m sitting here and I haven’t got a clue,” Walker added. “But that’s good. That means everyone is vying for positions.

“We have got lots and lots of competition and that’s the bit that’s getting everyone going.

“In the three games, York City have not looked out of place.”

Walker continued: “I believe we had more of the ball, possibly, than the opposition did.

“We are conceding sloppy goals and it is something we are a little concerned about, but I think some of our play going forward was absolutely fantastic and we are scoring some nice goals in front of the home crowd.

“I’m very, very happy with the way we are at the moment. The level of fitness of the boys is really, really good.

“The pre-season has been carefully planned. I hope we have got it down to a fine art. I don’t think anyone out there is looking sluggish.

“They are making bad decisions at times, but that is going to happen because we are not at full 90-minute levels yet.”