THE York City Fox is targeting a Shrews return in 12 days' time.

And teenage Minstermen midfielder Christian Fox is out to prove he is no one-season wonder.

The 19-year-old top prospect has suffered a frustrating campaign so far, starting City's first two games that ended in defeat before he was relegated to the bench.

A hamstring injury hit hopes of a swift return to the starting line-up before he suffered another slight pull of the same muscle an hour into his comeback for the reserves at Sheffield United.

However, the City youngster, who signed a two-year extension to his current contract during the summer, is targeting a return to first-team training on Monday.

And Fox is hoping that his absence from the side for the home clash with Brighton is one of his last.

Providing there is no recurrence of the injury, Fox hopes to be back on the pitch for City's second string against Shrewsbury Town on October 4.

One of City's brightest performers last year, his return to action will be a massive boost for York chief Terry Dolan and cannot come a moment too soon for Fox.

"It has been a frustrating time," Fox told the Evening Press. "You just want to start every game and help as much as you can.

"But you cannot rush an injury like this. That was probably my problem last time - I rushed back too soon."

His first season in the professional ranks earned him rave reviews and the City Supporters' Club player-of-the-year award, and saw a host of top clubs checking his progress. But Fox admitted he fully expected his second season to be a test.

"My main concern now is coming back from this injury and then getting my place back in the first team and playing as well as I can," he explained.

"But I also want to prove to people I am no flash in the pan.

"I have got plenty of time on my side but I want to keep up the progress of last year and come back from this injury stronger."

Fox admitted his current injury problem was made all the more frustrating because last season he was a near ever present until succumbing to a foot injury and stomach strain in the spring.

"It is just one of those things you have got to deal with, but as I said, it is frustrating because I want to be involved," he said.

His time on the Bootham Crescent sidelines is proving no stroll, however.

Fox is being put through his paces by club physio Jeff Miller, with sessions in the City treatment room followed by stretching exercises and gym work before a return to the treatment table.