CHRIS Brass is planning an overhaul of his York City squad ahead of next season's Conference campaign.
He has hinted that several of the club's more experienced players are unlikely to be offered new deals.
Adam Arthur made his debut as a substitute against Doncaster and Graeme Law made his second City appearance when captain Darren Edmondson was dragged off at half-time and Brass believes the younger players will play an important role in the resurrection of the club, whilst acknowledging that new experienced faces will also need to be added.
Only Brass, Lee Nogan and Darren Dunning are currently contracted beyond the end of this season and Brass said: "We have a blank canvas now to work from. I still believe there's the nucleus of a good, young side to take this club forward as was shown earlier in the season.
"At times, key players have been either injured or shown a lack of form and have not helped their team-mates, which is needed when you are carrying a small squad.
"Now I am going to have to make horrible, horrible decisions and people are going to lose their jobs. That's the harshest reality and what I have been stressing since we started losing games.
"It had to be taken on board and, while nobody wants to lose their job, I don't think one or two can complain. I feel sorry for one or two of the youngsters who will be tarnished by this. Graeme Law and Adam Arthur were the plusses against Doncaster.
"They did exceptionally well coming into a game like that and showing no fear. I am sure the young players who stay will have a big role to play in the restructuring of this football club.
"They have got to remember this feeling but the players that will be brought to this football club will help them achieve success."
Brass seemed unimpressed by the contributions of Edmondson and Liam George at Doncaster, substituting both players and added: "That's a matter I have to deal with. It's not so much a matter of if I am let down. You should be let down with yourself."
One player who looks as though he has pulled on a City shirt for the last time is Lee Bullock.
He looks certain to complete his transfer to Cardiff City at the end of the season.
The Minstermen midfielder has spent the last two months on loan at Ninian Park and impressed Bluebirds boss Lennie Lawrence in Saturday's 2-2 draw at Preston.
Lawrence said: "He did himself the power of good at Preston. It was the first time he has completed 90 minutes for us and there have been more plusses than minuses and the minuses are all things which you can work on at the age of 22."
Bullock will be hoping to play in Cardiff's last two games against Wimbledon at home and at Ipswich before being told his fate by Lawrence.
City are expected to net £75,000 from any deal up front with a further £75,000 after appearances.
Updated: 11:02 Monday, April 26, 2004
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