YORK City boss Chris Brass has pledged to 'go with what he's got' as he prepares his troops for Sunday's FA Cup clash with Barnsley.

With influential striker Jon Parkin starting a four match ban, a shot-shy City have a massive void to fill in their front-line ranks.

Brass has made no secret of his desire to draft in a loan signing to help to fill the gap.

However, the Evening Press can reveal no new signings will be made before Sunday.

In order for a loan player to be eligible to play in the FA Cup he must be signed a week in advance of the tie.

"We will not be getting anyone in this week and we will go with what we have got," said Brass.

"It would be pointless signing someone now because they won't be able to play so if anything happens it will be after the FA Cup.

"We are trying and looking all the time but at this time in the season it can be quite hard because clubs can be reluctant to release players."

Despite Parkin's absence, City, who have scored just 16 League goals this season - only seven teams in the Football League have scored less - have plenty of options for change from within.

The absence of the Barnsley-born target man could open the door for loan signing Craig Dove to make only his third start since joining from Middlesbrough last month. He is due to return to the North-East after the cup-tie.

City were today hoping Boro would give permission for the England Under-20 starlet to play, if selected, in Sunday's eagerly awaited derby duel.

Liam George, who has not started a first team game since September, could also be handed the chance to partner Lee Nogan in attack, while Aron Wilford could also come into contention after mainly bit-part roles so far.

With Darren Dunning available after serving a one-match ban, City's current top scorer Lee Bullock could lead the line alongside Nogan with City playing with an extra body in midfield.

Brass confirmed he is continuing to monitor the progress of trialist striker Gary Browne during the former Manchester City striker's spell at Whitby Town.

However, the City chief would not be able to draft Browne into Sunday's squad to tackle the Tykes even if he wanted to.

The former Manchester City forward is cup-tied having already played - and scored - for Town in a preliminary round of the FA Cup.

Browne is due to play for Whitby this weekend in the Blues' first round tie at Second Division Hartlepool with City and Brass poised to hold talks with the Northern Ireland Under-21 international early next week.

City fans are reminded that Sunday's first round tie at home to Barnsley, which kicks off at 3pm, is not all-ticket.

However, season ticket-holders, who wish to reserve their normal seat will have to buy that ticket before the match.

Club office hours are from 9am to 5pm and bookings can be made by credit card over the telephone on 0870 7771922, extension 1.

Updated: 11:16 Tuesday, November 04, 2003