Harriers’ new signing Keith Briggs is a natural leader, believes assistant manager Gary Whild.

The 28-year-old became manager Steve Burr’s third capture of the close season when he signed a two-year deal this week.

A versatile midfielder who can also play in defence, the former Stockport County and Norwich man became a free agent after deciding to leave Stalybridge Celtic.

Briggs was Burr’s captain at Celtic and Whild believes armband or not, Harriers’ latest addition will be one of the club’s leaders.

Briggs’ securing was also a lift after winger Brian Smikle declined a new deal at Aggborough and linked up with former boss Mark Yates at Cheltenham Town on a one-year deal.

Whild said: “Obviously Steve knows Keith’s character really well but I’ve seen him play many times and he’s an excellent addition to the club.

“In football or in business you want to bring the right people in and Keith definitely fits that bill.

“He’s got great pedigree and has been at places such as Norwich and Stockport.

“He was also captain at Stalybridge and he’s going to be one of the leaders on and off the pitch.

“Brian [Smikle] has gone to work with Mark Yates, who’s someone he knows well from Harriers.

“He’s done very well here, scoring 13 goals out wide last season and we wish him luck in the future.”

Harriers’ management team are still working hard to add new faces, with former Stalybridge wideman Dave Hankin, now a free agent, another possible target.

They are also monitoring former Bromsgrove Rovers, Redditch United and Kettering Town defender Exodus Geohaghan’s situation at Peterborough United.

The powerhouse has three years left on his deal at London Road but has been told by Gary Johnson that he is surplus to requirements.

Whild, who worked with Geohaghan at Redditch, said: “It’s nice to be able to tap into people like Exodus but at the moment there’s nothing really to be said.

“He’s contracted to Peterborough and we’ll have to see what happens in the future.”

Meanwhile, chairman Barry Norgrove is hoping to set up a testimonial match for club secretary Roger Barlow, who stepped down at the end of the season after 30-years of service.

David Colwell has stepped in as secretary and stadium manager.

Harriers have lined up a friendly at Hednesford Town on Saturday, August (3pm kick-off).