NEW boss John Eustace won't be pulling on a Kidderminster Harriers shirt next season because of his career ending knee injury.

Eustace was a dominant central midfielder who carved out a successful career at Coventry, Stoke, Watford and Derby and earned plaudits from Tony Pulis, Brendan Rogers and Steve McClaren.

Kidderminster supporters were hoping he had joined as player/boss but unfortunately his injury meants he'll be dictating his side from the technical area.

His time at Derby ended in frustration in 2015 after surgery on a knee problem which would continue to plague him.

Eustace then had a trial spell at Rangers, with manager Mark Warburton keen to sign him but the injury ended his dreams of playing for the Scottish giants.

Eustace admitted he'd still harboured hopes of being a player until recently but after another trip to go under the surgeon's knife in the United States, he called time on a 20-year career.

Kidderminster could be looking for a player in his mold to help the likes of Ousmane Fane and Elton Ngwatala develop.

Instead, his focus will be on bringing in several experienced new faces to bolster a youthful squad.

He said: "It has been a really busy two weeks. This is my first job in management and it's a new experience for me but I am excited about it.

"It was with a heavy heart that I had to retire six or seven weeks ago and a lot has happened since then.

"I had a chance to play for Rangers at the start of last season which would have been a great way for me to end my playing career.

"Unfortunately, the injury prevented me from signing and I had another set back with my knee and flew to the United States for surgery.

"But with a heavy heart my body broke down and a new chapter opened in my life.

"Now I am really enjoying a new challenge at Kidderminster Harriers."