Worthington believes York can arrest slide

The former Northern Ireland manager took charge at Bootham Crescent a little under four weeks ago and has so far presided over a four-game run that has yielded just one point.

However, after spotting encouraging signs in York’s 2-1 defeat at Torquay United last weekend, Worthington believes his players are ready to end the damaging winless run that currently stands at 15 games.

Ahead of today’s trip to Bristol Rovers, he said: “The second half at Torquay – and, in particular, the last 20 minutes – is what I am looking for. We need to take the game to the opposition.

“It takes time for people to get used to new ideas and new ways of doing things. But the signs are there that the players have taken everything on board and now we face six crucial games.

“The players have been very positive in training. Hard work is how anything is achieved and they are working incredibly hard.”

Adam Reed, the 21-year-old new arrival from Sunderland, could start today against the Pirates with Worthington admitting he has no concerns about throwing the midfielder into the fight for survival.

He said: “Adam has played 
a number of games and is 
experienced in the pressure-cooker atmosphere through playing for Portsmouth (on loan) this 
season. We all know they have 
had their fair share of problems lately.

“We had Adam watched a few times (before signing him on Wednesday) and we think he fits the bill nicely. We also did our homework in terms of ringing round and all the responses came back positive.

“The great thing with youngsters in a situation like this is they play with no fear.”

York face two games in three days this Easter, with Plymouth due at Bootham Crescent on Monday.

Worthington said: “We just deal with it. What we need is a positive result at Bristol Rovers to take into the Easter Monday match.”

Last six games: Bristol Rovers LWWLWW, York City DLLDLL.

Last time: Bristol Rovers 3 York City 0; March 27, 2004; Division Three.

Referee: D Whitestone (Northamptonshire).