Harriers assistant manager Gary Whild admits he was surprised about David McDermott's decision to leave Harriers and go on trial at York City.

The 22-year-old had started Harriers' first pre-season at home to West Bromwich Albion on Saturday but decided to try his luck at their Blue Square Bet Premier rivals.

McDermott had been asked back to try his hand at earning a new deal at Harriers this summer after injuries and illness hampered his attempts to impress Steve Burr last season.

The former Walsall youngster was on contract during the 2009-10 campaign and had looked to have nailed down a regular first team spot when he was laid low for three months by a serious bout of colitis.

When he did come back his season was ended prematurely at Barrow by a wreckless challenge from Paul Edwards.

"I'm surprised to see David try his luck at York," commented Whild.

"He's got a lad who looks after his affairs and obviously he's a free agent so that's up to him.

"He understood that Steve wanted to take a proper look at him because of injuries and illness.

"It's his choice, good luck to him."

Meanwhile, Whild and boss Steve Burr are concentrating on preparing for tonight's pre-season clash at Solihull Moors.

John Finnigan is set to miss the game as he recovers from the calf injury sustained at the end of last season. Chris McPhee is also absent as he spends time with his wife and newborn baby.

The midfielder officially resumes training with the club on Thursday, although he did feature in the second half of Harriers' 3-0 loss to WBA.

Trialists Paul Connor, Mike Williams and Matt Blair are all set to feature and there could also be several new faces hoping to earn a deal.

Whild said: "I don't think we'll change it much around from Saturday.

"We'll be having a look at all the players, it will be a good test for us and a good work out.

"At this stage it's important to get the players' fitness up.

"They had a hard first week but to be fair to them all their have already shown a strong togetherness at this early stage."

Shuttle Online will have live updates from tonight's league friendly (7.45pm kick-off).