In reply to Gordon Howdle's direct question to me (Letters, February 19) concerning Terry Dolan and Chris Brass, he should remember Mr Dolan had a budget three times more than Chris Brass is operating this season.

Maybe when the season is over we can start making comparisons between the two men and their achievements

One thing is unquestionable: Chris Brass has shown commitment and pride towards York City while Terry Dolan has displayed nothing but greed.

David Potter,

Lynden Way, York.

...Gordon Howdle clearly doesn't understand either Mr Dolan's relationship with the club, nor the extent of its recent troubles.

True, Terry Dolan had a favourable contract with York City Football Club Limited, and he has a perfect right to claim what is legally due. But any honourable man would forego the performance-related pay, considering that he is no longer affecting the performances of the team and he has already taken considerable pay while on gardening leave.

The comparison Mr Howdle makes between this season and last is irrelevant. But considering Chris Brass is operating on about one third of last season's budget, I'd say he's performing significantly better than Dolan would, given the circumstances.

Matthew Flint,

Alma Grove, York.

Updated: 09:35 Saturday, February 21, 2004