BOSS Neil MacFarlane says he's looking forward to assessing his squad under match conditions now Kidderminster's friendly programme has begun.

Reds will host Championship side Aston Villa at Aggborough this Saturday (3pm kick-off) as their pre-season preparations go up a gear.

Harriers lost 3-0 in a behind-closed-doors friendly at Shrewsbury on Wednesday afternoon but the manager is pleased with the progress ahead of his first game in front of the Harriers' faithful.

He said: "It's a good opportunity and good for the boys to show what they can do.

"We've worked them really hard over the last few weeks on the training pitch so it's good to get playing again.

"The Villa game is one to look forward to. The pitch is looking great at the moment and they should bring a few fans as well.

"We'll give them 45 minutes each and keep working to the programme we have to build them up in time for the new season.

"We want to give players as many minutes as possible and keep taking steps towards that first game at Alfreton.

"The game against Shrewsbury was a really good workout and test for us against a very good side. We conceded a few goals that we shouldn't have but it was really pleasing in terms of our shape and the way we went about it."

MacFarlane also said that the club's younger players have a chance to shine during pre-season.

"The new lads have all fitted in really well and hopefully we can get a couple more in but we will be carrying quite a tight squad. That means there could be opportunities for the academy lads at the club. We'll give them a chance during pre-season and it's up to them to show they can be apart of the squad.

"There are a lot of good things happening with the academy and we do want to look at them."

Meanwhile, Harriers will be staging a 'Meet the Manager' event at Aggborough Stadium with MacFarlane.

Fans will have the opportunity to discuss the new season with the boss, who will be joined by chairman Colin Gordon at the event held at the Aggborough Suite on Wednesday, August 1 at 7.30pm.

Tickets for the event are on sale at £8 per person and includes food on the night. Tickets can be purchased by visiting the Aggborough Ticket Office or the online shop.