WINGER Matty Blair admitted it was a tough decision to leave Harriers and sign a two-year deal at Blue Square Bet Premier rivals York this week.

The 21-year-old has put pen to paper for the Minstermen, despite Harriers boss Steve Burr offering him a two-year deal.

Former Telford, Bedworth and Racing Club Warwick flyer Blair, who became a hot property after scoring 11 goals last season took advice from his father, former Aston Villa European Cup winner Andy Blair on the move.

Cambridge had also been interested in securing the services wideman, who was popular with the Harriers faithful.

“It is the history of the club, the fans and the noise they can generate – the city itself,” Blair told the York Press.

“It’s the first time I have been and had a walk round and it’s a fantastic city.

“It’s a hard place to turn down, to be honest.

“I was at Kidderminster which was a fantastic club for me because it was my first season in the Blue Square Bet Premier.

“They gave me my chance and were brilliant.

“It was a hard decision (to leave). I felt I owed them a lot but, on the other hand, I spoke to my dad and he advised me very well. It was a really difficult decision. The fans at Kidderminster made me feel brilliant.”

However, Harriers will be able to claim compensation for the 21-year-old, who they offered an improved deal, under the Bosman Ruling.

The Aggborough outfit may well also dig in their heels over a fee for the wideman as York had not spoken with Harriers before capturing Blair's signature.

If the two clubs cannot agree a figure which both are happy about it, then an FA tribunal will make a decision on the figure.

Last season, Grimsby had to pay Crawley £10,000 for hitman Charles Ademeno in a similar situation.

Like Blair, Ademeno was under 24-years-old and had scored 11 goals.