Officials at Stoke City have been surprised with the number of York City fans who are set to visit the Britannia Stadium next month.

The Minstermen have already sold 3,000 tickets for their FA Cup third round tie on 2nd January, while a further allocation of 1,300 tickets is already understood to be selling very well.

“It is good support, especially for a non-League club,” a Stoke club spokesman confirmed before adding that York’s travelling army would be bigger than those seen at the Britannia for many Premier League matches.

“It was quite a surprise and I am sure the York fans will come and give it everything.

“Our fans will be making it a good atmosphere and we have given the whole of the end behind the goal – the Seat Stand (to York supporters).

“Normally that end is segregated and, in our last two games, it has been two thirds Stoke fans and one third visitors. We have given York the whole end.”

Tickets, priced £15 adults, £10 for over-65s and £5 for under-17s, can be ordered by phoning 01904 624447 extension 1.