Martin Gray ready to “excite” York City fans following Darlington departure

By Matt Bishop
Martin Gray has promised to “play with tempo” and “excite” York City‘s fans as he prepares for his first game in charge of the Minstermen on Saturday afternoon.
Following five years at Darlington, Gray begins his spell at Bootham Crescent with a difficult looking test against high-flying Brackley Town.
However, while the new York boss is wary of Brackley’s talent, he is focused on getting a positive result and entertaining his new fans.
Speaking to BBC Radio York, Gray said: “We’re going to play very high-tempo, attacking football. We want to excite the crowd and give them something to shout about.
“It’s going to be a tough game because Brackley are a very, very good team in this league,” he warned. “They’ve done ever so well this season – in the FA Cup as well.
“Last season they should have probably finished in the play-offs. The big FA Cup run they had probably hampered them towards the back end of the season.
“It won’t be an easy game but is a game we’re really looking forward to. We’re at home and have got to make sure we put in a fantastic performance with loads of energy.”
A player who could help York put in a good performance is Darlington left-back David Ferguson, who became Gray’s first York City signing on Friday.
“He’s got good experience at this level and higher,” said Gray. “As a 19-20 year-old he played and captained Blackpool in the Championship. He dropped out of the game and we [Darlington] picked him up very, very quickly.
“He went on to represent England at ‘C’ level – captain as well. He’s a leader and winner and knows exactly what I’m about, and I think he’ll be a great asset to the football club.”
Meanwhile, Gray denied plotting a return to Darlington for Quakers goalkeeper Adam Bartlett, but did admit he was on the hunt for new recruits.
“At this moment in time we’re in contact with lots of clubs, agents and players, and we’re trying to get one or two [more] in for tomorrow still,” said Gray.