A FORMER York City striker has made his first steps into management - despite being just 23-years-old. 

Reon Potts, who made six appearances for York from 2020 to 2022, is now in the managerial hotseat in the ninth tier. 

The 23-year-old began his career in the academy of Sheffield United, but failed to break into the first-team despite an encouraging loan spell with Tamworth, earning himself a contract with then-EFL outfit Scunthorpe United. 

One season with the Irons saw Potts make the move into North Yorkshire after being released by Scunthorpe, where he would go on to make six appearances in the Vanarama National League North, not finding the back of the net when representing City.

After impressing during pre-season with City, Potts immediately joining former academy midfielder Archie Whitfield in a loan to Northern Premier League east division side Ossett United to gain regular first team minutes. 

His time with the Minstermen would come to an end in 2022 after York gained promotion into the Vanarama National League via the play-offs, as one of 14 players to be released by the club.

Stints with Matlock Town, Brighouse Town, Marske United and Liversedge would follow, before Potts would settle down in the Northern Counties Eastern League premier division with Goole AFC.

A poor start to the 2024/25 season for Goole, who play in the same division as Tadcaster Albion and Pickering Town, saw manager Nathan Helliwell tender his resignation from the managerial post, with the Vikings winless and bottom of the division. 

The club moved quickly to instate Potts into the first-team manager position, with Elliott Pearson as his assistant. 

Potts had the perfect start to life in the hotseat in a behind-closed-doors league win over Penistone Church, Goole's first of the season, as the Vikings ran out as 3-2 winners in East Yorkshire. 

It isn't Potts' first coaching role, who also works as Head Coach for Next Level Academy.

Speaking on his new role within the club, Potts posted on social media: "Just wanted to say thank you to the chairman for giving me this opportunity. 

"Me, my staff and the players, will give 100 per cent to get this club back to where it should be. 

"The foundations of the club are brilliant, topped off by the amazing support we get week in, week out. 

"The lads we have just want to repay all of you with hard work tied together with an exciting brand of football that you enjoy coming to watch. 

"Let's get this season kickstarted and get back up the table. 

"Up the Vikings."