Dudgeon failed to make a single Premier League appearance last season as he recovered from a persistent knee injury.
The only two matches he played came in the Capital One League Cup, before an operation eventually threatened his career.
His positive attitude and hard work during those dark months saw him recently rewarded with a new one-year deal and he now wants to repay the club's faith in him.
"Last year, I couldn't have played two games in three days," said Dudgeon after getting 90 minutes under his belt in the 5-0 win at Harrogate Town. "So, if I do play at York, it will be an accomplishment for me.
"I felt fine after the match but playing games has always been fine, it's the recovery afterwards.
"Hopefully, there won't be any problems and I'll be ready for the York match.
"I'm glad to get through Monday's 90 minutes. I knew I would but it's a waiting game now. The way the game went and how it felt after the final whistle, suggests it should be fine. I hope I'll be involved at York."
The 23-year-old is keen to make up for lost time after looking on from the treatment room as his team-mates stayed in the top flight and gave Arsenal a scare in May's FA Cup final.
One of the stand-out performers at Harrogate, the left-back is determined to force his way into Steve Bruce's side to face Queens Park Rangers in their Premier League opener on August 16.
But before that, comes the small matter of City's historic Europa League clash next Thursday.
Having taken part in an intensive training programme, Dudgeon admits he is feeling better than in previous pre-seasons.
"I feel good and match fit which is the difference," he added.
"In a lot of pre-seasons, I have come back feeling fit, but not match fit which is completely different.
"By doing the off-season programme, the extras have helped get me ready for the games rather than just the fitness side.
"Last season was tough mentally for me.
"This is completely different to anything I've done before.
"I can do as much as I can in rehab but once it comes to games, it's totally different.
"I need as many minutes in these matches as I can get."
