DAVE Hockaday says he’s is ready for the challenge of turning around Kidderminster Harriers’ fortunes on the pitch.

The 57-year-old was named head coach this evening, ending a three week process to replace Gary Whild.

Having managed at Forest Green and Leeds United and a spell at Coventry City, he’s eager to get started with his players.

Hockaday worked with Kidderminster’s squad on Friday and will take charge of his first game tomorrow at Macclesfield (12.30pm ko).

"To be given the opportunity to get back out on to the grass - that's something I have been waiting for.

"I am a coach - that's what my reputation is and that's what I am known as.

"Kidderminster have always been a big name at this level and this is a big challenge - it's one I am relishing and one I am looking forward to.

"Success here for us this season will be to stay in this league and if I didn't think we could achieve that, I wouldn't have been interested.

"I have been in with the players and have a good look at the squad - there a lot of hard work ahead but we have the potential here to get ourselves out of this and to build for the future."

Hockaday had previously worked with Jared Hodgkiss and Reece Styche at Forest Green.

He added: "I know a number of the players and there is a bit of everything here for me here.

"I know a few of the players and that makes me coming in a little bit easier, but Kidderminster want to produce some of their own players as well and that excites me, it's really good project."