York City boss Martin Foyle has paid tribute to on loan defender Luke Graham following his performance in the 1-0 weekend victory at AFC Wimbledon.

Graham received a late call-up into the side after Ben Purkiss withdrew with a chest complaint. He lined up alongside David McGurk, while skipper Danny Parslow switched across to the right-back position. Foyle also handed a recall to midfielder Levi Mackin, with Alex Lawless moving out wide.

"I was pleased with the lads who came into the side. Luke Graham was outstanding at the back and showed the depth we have in the squad," Foyle told The Press.

“It was probably the latest decision I’ve ever had to make on a player, but he got settled into it straight away and Dan Parslow will play anywhere for you. That’s why he’s one of the first names on our team-sheet.

“In midfield, they play the diamond so we tweaked things a bit. I wanted Levi to screen and protect the back four and he’s the perfect man to do that.”

Striker Michael Rankine was again on the mark for the second consecutive game to increase his total to five for the season.

“His fitness levels are getting better, as is his partnership with Brodes. They work well together and it’s not all about Brodes scoring lots of goals. We have a strikeforce that can cause anybody problems and I’m reluctant to change anything up there," said Foyle.

“Not many strikers are there these days to take the knocks and bring others into the game but, in Ranks and Gashy, I have two forwards who are willing to do that so the likes of Brodes and Richard Pacquette can play off them.

“All 11 players battled for each other as well. You can talk about shape and discipline, but they all put their necks on the line.”