MANAGER Terry Dolan will be watching tomorrow's crunch Bootham Crescent clash from the stands.

The City chief is serving the second game of a two-match dug-out ban following his touchline dust-up at Rushden and Diamonds earlier this year.

Dolan today urged the City faithful to adopt his role of manager as he faced 'twiddling his thumbs'.

Said Dolan: "When you are sat up there and you can't get down to the dug-out to offer words of encouragement it's frustrating.

"I would like to appeal to all supporters. They can have the opportunity of being the manager for 90 minutes. They can encourage the players better than I can tomorrow."

The City chief was sent to the stands at Nene Park by referee David Crick aftercomments made to the official.

He was subsequently charged with improper conduct by the FA and told the Evening Press he would not be contesting the charge. He added today: "It's taught me a lesson to keep my mouth shut."

Dolan, however, has been lifted by a clean bill of health for his players.

Injury doubts have cleared over central defenders Chris Brass (hip), Scott Jones (groin) and Chris Smith ('flu), the latterhaving missed the blank Bank Holiday clash at home to Kidderminster.

Another absentee, midfielder Lee Bullock, returned to training after damaging a shoulder in the defeat at Lincoln City, while on-loan striker Anthony Shandran has recovered from a perforated ear-drum, his luckless reward for getting in the way of a fierce Darren Edmondson shot.

In another boost, midfielder Christian Fox could be on the bench. He had surgery last month after breaking his left arm in two places, but will be able to sport a protective light-weight cast.

York City's Under-19s play the final game of their Youth Alliance Division Three North Merit Section campaign tomorrow when they entertain Bury at the club's Wigginton training ground, kick-off 11am.

The City youngsters will be hoping to make it four wins on the bounce to secure a top three finish in the table.

Tonight's fans' forum will be held at the Tempest Anderson Hall, starting at 7.30pm.

Updated: 11:57 Friday, April 25, 2003