Portsmouth v York City: Everyone at York has had the chance to impress – McNamara

However, ahead of the trip to Portsmouth, the Scot insisted that the task of reviving the Minstermen’s season is one he is relishing.

“I knew it was a challenge,” said McNamara, whose four league and cup games at the helm have all ended in defeat. “That is what inspires me to do it.

“It has been a tough start with the games and the cups. But I knew that when I came here. I want to take this club forward.

“These two weeks have been long in terms of getting to know people but I have learned from it.”

Ten goals conceded in McNamara’s first four games have pushed the Scot into decisive action.

Marvin McCoy has been placed on the transfer list, while Keith Lowe and John McCombe also look to be on their way out.

William Boyle, the Huddersfield Town defender, was drafted in to play alongside George Swan at the heart of the defence, but McNamara’s hopes of bringing in a right-back to replace McCoy before the trip to Fratton Park have been dashed.

He does, though, hope to have a new face – more than likely from a Championship club’s Development squad – before the loan deadline later this week.

McNamara, who will again be without Michael Coulson tonight, said: “I have been here two weeks and feel I’ve given people enough chance to show me what they can do.”

Last six games: Portsmouth DDLWDD, York City LLLLLL.
Referee: I Williamson (Berkshire).

Last time: Portsmouth 1 York City 1; May 2, 2015; League Two.