A FEAR of failure is driving sole survivor Matt Hocking on in his continued fight to establish himself as a York City mainstay.

The central defender is the only player brought to the club by former City chief Neil Thompson to have survived the sweeping cull instigated by current manager Terry Dolan.

And yet despite the confidence-boost that statistic should bring Hocking, who was arguably City's most improved performer last season, he insists he still has it all to do.

The Boston-born 23-year-old, who has finally banished the boo-boys who had haunted his early Bootham Crescent career, said: "In some ways it gives me a lift to know I'm the only player from that era to still be here.

"But on the other hand the gaffer has brought a lot of players in now.

"I'm the only one left and I've only got this season left on my current contract.

"It means I have still got to stick at it and keep pressing the gaffer and hopefully he will offer me something else.

"I would love to stay here. I love the club and the city."

Not that Hocking is complaining at the situation, believing life outside the comfort zone can only be a good thing.

"I did quite well when I came in last season, but I still feel I have got a point to prove and not just to the gaffer, but to the fans as well," he ventured.

"However, as a player you need that pressure, that incentive.

"A longer run in the team will do a lot for me and would build my confidence and help me to become a better player."

Hocking admits after a luckless City career in terms of team endeavours he is desperate for a change in fortune for the club.

The two seasons he has been a Minsterman have seen City fighting relegation.

He was also on loan at the club when City were relegated from Division Two on that fateful day at Maine Road in 1999.

He said: "We have got players here now, who have been to the top and done it, and then we have got young players coming through.

"It is a good blend and it can only strengthen the team.

"I am really looking forward to this season. Hopefully we can have a different start - I think everyone has said that - but it is what we are aiming for.

"All the lads have come back really fit and are keen to get a good start and we couldn't have asked for a better start than at home to Rushden.

"When we had that good run at the end of last season you could just feel the confidence running through the team.

"It was great feeling to have and we want it to continue."