Back on board

But the blow of losing Potter has been softened for City player-boss Chris Brass with the news central defender Chris Smith has finally pledged his allegiance to the Minstermen.

After a week mulling over City's offer, fans' favourite Smith has finally put pen to paper on a new one-year contract.

While delighted to have finally secured Smith's signature just hours after capturing goalkeeper Marlon Beresford, Brass is wasting little time in trying to find a replacement for Potter.

Arriving at Bootham Crescent on trial is former Leeds United starlet Gareth Evans, recently released by Huddersfield Town as part of cost-cutting measures.

Evans, 22, a former England youth international, joins another left-sided trialist, Danny Stone, cut-free from Notts County at the end of last season, in training with City this week.

Brass, who had offered Potter a new contract but on vastly reduced terms, said he bore the former England Under-21 international no ill-feeling.

"He was someone we did try to re-sign but we wish him well," said Brass.

"Graham did well for York, especially during the troubled times of last season.

"We wish him all the best at Boston but he has gone now, he is no longer one of us and we move on.

"I will be looking to replace him and there are plenty of players out there."

Brass spoke of his delight after Smith finally agreed to sign his new contract.

The City player-boss said: "Getting Smithy back on board is a big plus, especially if he continues to progress like he did last season.

"If he does continue along those lines, I am sure he will go on to bigger and better things.

"But the ball is in his court now and it is up to him to come up with the goods."

Brass confirmed rookie defender Stuart Wise has also put pen to paper on his first senior contract after progressing through the youth ranks at City.

The Evening Press understands Potter, who made 131 appearances for City since joining the club from West Brom three years ago, also had offers from Oxford United, Colchester and Rushden and Diamonds. In joining Boston, bossed by former City chief Neil Thompson, Potter links-up with former City striker Peter Duffield and ex-Minstermen defender Matt Hocking.

Former City striker Marco Gabbiadini is training with Darlington while he mulls over an offer from the club.

In a two year spell with the Quakers, the 35-year-old, released by Northampton Town at the end of last season, scored 53 times in 95 appearances.

Meanwhile, City of York Council are to discuss the future of Huntington Stadium tonight.

City are scheduled to move there at the end of the 2003/04 season but concern has been expressed over the fate of the running track and athletics facilities should the football club move there.

Updated: 11:14 Tuesday, July 08, 2003