York City have vowed to take a softly, softly approach with youngsters emerging from the club's highly-respected youth system.

Flying winger Kieran Darlow made his debut while still a first-year trainee last season while midfielder Leigh Wood was named on the bench for the final trip to Leyton Orient.

Seventeen-year-old Wood made his first 'senior' start in York's first pre-season match - the 1-0 win over Marske United in the North Riding Senior Cup.

City coach Adie Shaw has revealed the club are still adding to the knowledge of the England Schoolboy Under-14 trialist with their gentle touch.

"Leigh Wood is a talented player and we are bringing him in gently. He will get better and better because he is still only 17," enthused Shaw.

"He comes training with the first team now and again and it is all valuable experience for him.

"The game against Marske was a test because it was a physical game, but Leigh can hold his head up high because he contrib-uted to the game."

PICTURE: ON THE UP: City youngster Leigh Wood