OUT of favour York City midfielder Christian Fox was set to be on the move this afternoon.

Fox is on the verge of joining Irish League side Larne on loan until the end of the season.

However, the Evening Press understands the deal is not cut and dried with red-tape and problems with player registration said to be holding up the switch.

It is hoped the deal will be completed by tomorrow.

There is no suggestion the loan move will become permanent.

Manager Terry Dolan is simply anxious for Fox, who has struggled to make an impact since recovering from a major knee operation a year ago, to play first-team football.

Should the loan switch be completed, City will have power of recall on the player at any time.

Speaking to the Evening Press after last night's reserve game with Darlington, Fox had indicated his desire to win back a first team place at Bootham Crescent.

Fox, who has dropped down the pecking order in recent weeks and did not even make the squad for Leyton Orient in midweek, admitted it had been a frustrating time but was adamant his star will rise again.

"I've just got to wait for my chance and keep plugging away in reserve games and training," he said.

"I've got to keep fit, wait for my opportunity and keep patient and do it for myself really.

"If the gaffer then decides to give me a chance then I've got to take it."

Fox insisted his knee problems that prompted major surgery this time last year were now dead and buried.

"The knee is fine and I have had no problems so fingers crossed it will be all right now," he said.

Larne play in the First Division of the Northern Irish League, which is made up of ten clubs.

The League which is split into three divisions, boasting a Premier Division which includes the likes of Glentoran, Linfield and Ards, where Alan Fettis began his career.

Updated: 16:36 Thursday, February 21, 2002