CLEAN sheets are the yardstick of success for York City right-back Lanre Oyebanjo.

The Republic of Ireland Under-21 defender joined the Minstermen from Histon and is looking forward to slotting into one of the Blue Square Bet Premier’s meanest defences.

The City back-line, which has been kept largely intact during the summer comings and goings, recorded 22 shut-outs last season.

Oyebanjo, 21, is widely expected to line up in front of ’keeper Michael Ingham on the right of a settled defence that includes left-back James Meredith, and two from three of the centre-backs in skipper Chris Smith, David McGurk and Daniel Parslow.

Pre-season training got under way last Friday and manager Gary Mills will get the first look at his squad at this Friday’s opening friendly at Tadcaster Albion.

Oyebanjo said: “I am looking forward to striking up a relationship with the rest of the back four.

“I like to defend first and foremost, and keep clean sheets.

“York kept a lot last season and there is a lot of pride in clean sheets. York’s record shows they can defend. If you are not conceding many goals it will help you win games.”

While his emphasis is on defensive duties, Oyebanjo is also looking to play a part further forward.

“I also like to attack and feel I can bring something to the game going forward,” he said. “I feel I can contribute. Full-back is the starting point for a lot of attacks and hopefully I can join in.”

During his final season at relegated Histon, Oyebanjo was fielded as an emergency centre-back – including the Stutes’ visit to Bootham Crescent – and he is delighted to have an extra string to his bow.

“I prefer to play right-back but last season at Histon we got a few injuries and I played at centre-back a few times,” said Oyebanjo.

“I’ve also played centre-back for the Republic of Ireland Under-21s. It’s good to have another position to play if needs be.”

Meanwhile, the Blue Square Bet Premier fixture list will be released today after Rushden & Diamonds withdrew their appeal against expulsion from the Football Conference.

The League was informed yesterday afternoon by the Football Association that the Nene Park-based club had dropped their appeal – meaning the decision to expel them is ratified.

Brian Lee, chairman of the Conference board of directors, planned to release a full statement at 11am today, at which point the fixture list for all three divisions of the competition would also be confirmed.

Meanwhile, City will take on Clifton Alliance in a fundraising cricket match on Sunday.

Gary Mills has agreed to take a team to the home of last year’s York and District Senior League runners up for a Twenty20 clash with all proceeds going towards the York City Youth Team Fund.

The match is due to start at 2pm with the bar open from 1pm and a barbecue planned for spectators.

Admission is free although a bucket collection will be held for the under-18 side.

The youth team will also end their annual sponsored walk on the day at Clifton Alliance to collect donations.

Looking forward to the match, City manager Gary Mills said: “It will be a change for the players and a chance for the supporters to meet the squad on what should be an enjoyable day, weather permitting.

“I’m sure some players will tell me they are good at cricket but will prove otherwise on the day!

“We might need a little practice to see who’s any good but it will be a bit of fun after our first week’s training.”