Kenny McEvoy: Jackie McNamara crucial in York move

York signing Kenny McEvoy has revealed the influence of Jackie McNamara in his decision to sign a permanent deal at Bootham Crescent.

McEvoy made four appearances for the Minstermen on loan but, following his departure from Tottenham, the 22-year-old has signed on at York for the rest of the season.

York are currently bottom of the Sky Bet Football League having won only three of their 24 games, but the Republic of Ireland Under-21 winger says he is relishing the opportunity of working under a manager who has a track record of developing young players.

"He (McNamara) was a massive factor," McEvoy told the official York website.

"Knowing what he has done elsewhere showed me that he does give people a chance if they deserve it.

"I've just got to make sure that I'm one of those players by continuing to work hard and hopefully get into the first team.

"It's the real world and I am looking forward to seeing what I'm capable of in men's football."

McEvoy has only started once for York so far and admits the step-up from Under-21 football is a difficult transition to make.

"It's been tough coming from Tottenham where you play a lot of pass and move, to here when you need to work harder and be defensively on it all the time," McEvoy said.

"In Under-21 football you can maybe get away somewhat with your defensive duties but everything is watched at this level and you need to make sure you are working for the team.

"It's a lot more draining mentally because it's key you are always in the right position and helping everyone out before then thinking about going forward and creating chances and goals which hopefully I can add to the team.

"I think it's brilliant to be playing proper, competitive football though. I just want to start my football career now and then the rest is down to me."