Young Ukrainian refugee Matvii welcomed into the York City footballing family

A young Ukrainian refugee was welcomed into the York City football family at last night’s game.

Matvii, aged 12, was at the LNER Community Stadium to watch City’s match against Curzon Ashton.

Matvii, who has recently arrived in the country, is being housed by York City fans and was invited to the game where he spent the night in hospitality, enjoying a game under the lights, which ended in a a 0-0 draw.

Along with his hosts, he was welcomed on the pitch before the game to a round of applause in the centre circle with the players and was gifted York City merchandise from the club shop.

The club has donated £368, the share of the 50/50 cash draw from the game, to the Ukraine Humanitarian Appeal.

York City press officer Dan Simmonite said: “York City prides itself on being a family friendly and inclusive football club and we welcome Matvii to the York City family.”