YORK City have banned the 'F'-word as they look to transfer their FA Cup form and fortunes into the League.

City wing-back Graham Potter admits the Minstermen must put Fulham to the back of their minds as they prepare for tomorrow's tough trip to Rushden and Diamonds.

And with the visit of Rochdale on Tuesday still to come before Jean Tigana's money-laden Cottagers arrive at Bootham Crescent for their fourth round FA Cup clash next Saturday, Potter is adamant he would trade victory over Fulham for six priceless points.

"We can't afford to think about Fulham because we have got such a big game on Saturday," explained Potter.

"With Carlisle beating Hull in midweek we are now second from bottom and we must address our League position.

"That is more important than the Cup and I would take the six points that are up for grabs over anything in the Cup.

"We need to get out of where we are and we have proved we are better than where we are.

"But we can't keep saying that - we have got to do it."

Although City have not savoured a League victory since October, the 1-0 Cup win over Grimsby in midweek does mean the Minstermen have now gone four games unbeaten for the first time this season.

Potter admits the signs are encouraging that City, despite their lowly position, could be turning the corner.

"We have had a bit of continuity of late, particularly at the back," he said.

"We have had a bit of stability there and look a bit more solid so hopefully it is starting to come together at the right time.

"It was certainly the best I have seen the team play on Tuesday since I have been at the club, especially in the first-half when we created about eight good chances."

Potter admits Rushden, who won 1-0 at Bootham Crescent on the first day of the season, will provide a different sort of opposition to Grimsby.

"It's a tough game whoever you play against in Division Three but we have got the players to do it and a couple of wins in the League could make all the difference," said the ex-England Under-21 ace.

Potter will feature in an unchanged side. Skipper Chris Brass will not be risked as suspensions are due to bite next week.

Commercial radio station Minster FM are tonight hosting a phone-in from 6.15pm.

Answering questions will be club director Josh Easby, Flamingo Land owner Gordon Gibb, and Sophie McGill from the working group looking to set up a Supporters' Trust.

The number to call is 01904 481234 or e-mail on Studio@minsterfm.com

Updated: 12:09 Friday, January 18, 2002