HOWARD Wilkinson last night told David Bellion: "You're better off at Sunderland than Manchester United."

With United plotting a daring raid for Bellion during January's transfer window, Wilkinson reckons he would benefit from continuing his footballing education on Wearside.

The French striker's contract is due to expire next summer and United are considering the option of offering a nominal sum for him in the New Year, knowing they might be able to sign him for nothing at the end of the season.

But as Sunderland prepare to offer Bellion a new deal, Wilkinson insisted the promising youngster would stand a greater chance of fulfilling his potential in the North-East.

The Sunderland manager said last night: "David thinks he can improve here and become a better player here. I agree with him.

"We have to make sure he becomes the sort of player who knows when the time is right to use his pace and when to run with the ball, and when not to do so. He has a lot of potential.

"I spoke to David yesterday and we'll be speaking again quite soon. I want him to stay and he's told me he wants to stay.

"That being the case, we still have to reach an agreement that suits everybody."

Bellion, who celebrated his 20th birthday on Wednesday, yesterday refused to commit his long-term future to the club but confirmed he is content at Sunderland.

He said: "I'm waiting to see what they say to me.

"At the moment, I'm at Sunderland and have six months left, but I'm really happy here and I'll see what happens."

Sunderland travel to Chelsea tomorrow without midfielder Jason McAteer, whom Wilkinson was hoping would have completed his recovery following a hernia operation in time to play at Stamford Bridge.

Wilkinson said: "Jason has had a setback which we hope will be temporary. We'll see how he is after the weekend."

l Howard Wilkinson believes York City, whose chronic financial problems may lead to their closure, could have to become a feeder club if they are to survive.

York have a link-up with Sunderland that has allowed Michael Reddy and Michael Proctor to spend loan spells at Bootham Crescent.

But at a time when a welter of Nationwide League clubs are struggling to stay alive during the worst cash crisis in English football history, Wilkinson believes more teams could have to follow the Italian blueprint and enter official tie-ins with bigger sides.

He said: "If a way could be found that would allow clubs like York to be supported by other clubs, but in such a way that it didn't affect the leagues and cups, obviously I can see lower division clubs becoming feeder clubs.

"I think people are looking at that now and I hope they do find a way in which that can be achieved. From my time at the FA, I know it's not an easy situation.

"But I support the idea of the stronger clubs helping the weaker clubs, providing it doesn't affect the integrity of the competition.

"Often, youth development is the first thing to go when a club has financial problems.

"And with the influx of foreign players into the Premier League it's crucial that as many opportunities as possible are provided for young players to play."

York have confirmed a ''positive'' meeting has taken place between club officials and the Professional Footballers' Association.

Chairman John Batchelor revealed earlier this week that City players would not be getting paid this month due to the crippling financial situation at Bootham Crescent.

This led to the intervention of the PFA, who have offered financial support.