Despite York hoping to extend his loan, he returned to Darlington following its expiration on 19 October 2004 and played against Swansea City in a 2–1 away defeat on 17 November, with manager David Hodgson saying he "did very well".
York hoped to continue his loan but returned to Darlington on October 19, 2004, following the loan's expiration. He then played against Swansea City on November 17th, losing 2-1 away. Manager David Hodgson praised York's performance.