An Anglo-Scottish tug-of-war is breaking out at York City.

At the centre of the tussle is Reading's former Welsh under-21 international defender Gareth Davies.

Touted as a possible City recruit before Christmas, the 25-year-old central defender has joined Scottish first division side Hibernian on a week's trial.

If he proves a hit north of the border then the defender, who is rated highly by City manager Alan Little, may opt for Scotland. The Easter Road club is already home to two former Royals players Stuart Lovell and Paul Holsgrove.

City's interest remains keen, however, with manager Little to keep a close watch on developments at the Edinburgh-based club, who currently lead the first division by 14 points.

Said Little: "The lad contacted me about Hibernian's approach and said it was an offer he had to take up. So I am aware of it.

"We still have an interest in him, but we will now have to see how things develop."

The City manager identified Davies as a potential recruit after the centre-back fell from favour with Reading's Scottish boss Tommy Burns. Coincidentally the Royals are the next visitors to Bootham Crescent on Saturday.

Initially City wanted to secure a loan deal for Davies, who has been told he can leave the Madejski Stadium on a free transfer just over a year after his £100,000 move to the Royals from Crystal Palace. But fighting his way back from injury he invited Little to watch him in action to then decide on a permanent move.

Since then, however, Davies has not figured as postponements, a lack of fixtures over the festive spell, and then a bout of 'flu conspired to keep him sidelined.

Now, though, the Hibees, managed by ex-Scottish stopper Alex McLeish, have stepped in offering the defender a week's trial.

Meanwhile, experienced City playmaker Steve Agnew has suffered a blow in his bid to return to senior action.

After his first reserves' outing for more than a month Agnew suffered a reaction to his thigh injury. He has undergone a scan, which revealed damage deep into the thigh muscle.

It is understood surgery will not be required, but the 33-year-old midfielder could face another few weeks under treatment.

However, there was more welcome news from the treatment room. Player-coach Neil Thompson and vibrant midfielder Alan Pouton will play some part in tomorrow's Pontin's League clash at home to Scarborough.

City have confirmed they will run a supporters' coach to East Anglia for the FA Youth Cup tie against Ipswich Town on Tuesday, January 26.

There are still several places left for the trip, which departs from Bootham Crescent at 1.30pm, at a cost of £15.

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