YORK City boss Billy McEwan has warned any player showing a lack of respect for tomorrow's FA Cup fourth qualifying round opponents Gainsborough Trinity will be immediately substituted.

McEwan takes his side to Conference North outfit Gainsborough knowing that any problems with the Minstermen's mental approach towards the tie could lead to an upset at Northolme.

The City manager is also reminding his players how important a cup run is for the club's financial well-being with the first £100,000 payment towards the £2million Football Foundation loan due in February.

McEwan said: "It's a big game for Gainsborough but it's a big, big game for us as well.

"We need to progress as far as we can because the club needs the money desperately.

"We want to be in the third round proper with all the big boys but we have got to get past Gainsborough first. They will have plenty of desire and hunger and we will have to match that.

"On paper, we will be favourites but the favourites don't always win cup-ties and, if we aren't right mentally, we will get turned over. I have told the players that if anybody isn't performing in a professional manner they will be dragged off immediately."

Added McEwan: "Gainsborough have battled through to this stage so they are no mugs. We have watched them three times since the draw. That's how seriously we are taking this match and if you fail to prepare then be prepared to fail."

City will be bidding to make tomorrow's first round draw at around 5.10pm without captain Mark Hotte but Emmanuel Panther has shown encouraging progress in his recovery from an ankle injury picked up during Saturday's 2-1 victory over Canvey Island and faces a late fitness test.

James Dudgeon will deputise for Hotte, who does not require surgery on his fractured shoulder but will be sidelined for two months as the break heals.

McEwan was also thwarted in a bid to bring a new centre-back to KitKat Crescent on loan when his intended target was sent off during a midweek match.

Updated: 10:39 Friday, October 21, 2005