York City defender Gary Hobson could be back in time for the Christmas run-in after initial reports on his knee injury indicated a longer lay-off.

Hobson, who has added an extra steel to the City back-line since returning against Kidderminster Harriers in October, damaged his medial knee ligaments in the 2-0 defeat against Swansea.

But the battling centre-half could now be back in contention for a return in two to three weeks.

"Gary is certainly not out for the rest of the season," said assistant-boss Adie Shaw. "Twenty-four hours after he did it, Jeff (Miller, City's physio) thought it would be three to four weeks, but on Thursday he said he has come on a lot and it could be just two to three weeks.

"Gary's had the weekend off to rest it, so hopefully that has helped it settle."

With a tough run of fixtures against Cheltenham Town (December 15), Rochdale (Dec 22), Hull City (Dec 26), Shrewsbury (Dec 29) and Halifax Town (January 1) coming up over the Christmas and New Year period, the return of Hobson will be a much-needed boost for City.

"Gary proved the last time he came back what he can do," said Shaw. "He is an asset for us.

"Chris Smith came in on Friday night and did ever so well, as did Matt Hocking, but the more competition you have for places the better. It keeps everyone on their toes."

With Alex Mathie reappearing for the final few minutes of the game against Mansfield Town after a groin strain, and Mike Basham on the bench after damaging his ankle against Macclesfield, City are finally starting to get their more experienced players out of the treatment room and back on to the pitch.

Lee Bullock, who missed the Mansfield game, is also making good progress after picking up a groin strain in training.

Another player to make his way along the comeback trail is young striker Scott Emmerson, who netted in York City's Intermediates 2-1 victory over Halifax Town on Saturday.

The young striker's season has been hampered by injury - including aggravating his hamstring against Hull in his last comeback match - but against Halifax he played for 70 minutes with no problems and could now come into contention for Wednesday's reserve clash at Grimsby. City's other scorer was Kieran Darlow.

Updated: 11:32 Monday, November 26, 2001