JOHN Eustace is looking forward to working with the players as Kidderminster Harriers' pre-season preparations go up a level next week.

Eustace and second in command Matt Gardner welcome back the squad as well as a number of hopefuls on Monday when training starts.

The duo were handed the reins in May but after seven weeks of talking to players over the phone and meetings, the new boss is relishing the chance to get back to the business on the pitch.

With Kidderminster one of the few full-time clubs in the National North their extra level of fitness will be a key factor in their attempts to bounce back from relegation.

Eustace said: "Since I've joined the club there's been a lot of talking to players so I am looking forward to training getting underway, it's a chance to work with the players.

"We will have all the contracted players back but there will also be a few hopefuls looking to prove themselves.

"It's exciting, if they do well and show they want to be here then they've got a chance of signing.

"At this stage it's about working the lads hard and making sure they will be fit.

"We're full-time we want to use these six weeks to give us an advantage."

Among those set to turn up for training are new faces Mani Dieseruvwe, Andre Brown, Sam Austin and Wayne Thomas, as well as a host of players from the previous campaign.

Eustace confirmed pacey attacker Omari Patrick is not going to re-sign for the club after being offered a new deal.

Keith Lowe is understood to be still in talks with the club but is pondering other offers and has yet to reach a decision, while right-back is expected to put pen to paper when he returns to training next week.