KIDDERMINSTER Harriers are hoping defender Lee Baker will commit himself to the club after he was offered a new deal at Aggborough.

The 21-year-old, who was named the away supporters’ player of the season, become one of the first names on the teamsheet in the second half of the previous campaign.

The former West Bromwich Albion star is out of contract but Harriers boss Steve Burr is eager to hang on to him.

He held talks with Baker last week and his assistant Gary Whild hinted that the club have offered a one-year deal with an option to extend it.

Whild said: “Steve spoke to Lee and offered him a deal and we hope he signs it. He had a solid season last year and was popular with the fans.

“The deal is similar to the one that he had last year, although I think there is an option for it to go beyond that.”

Harriers are eager to secure one of their leading lights, particularly after out contract right-back Duane Courtney joined York City this week.

Transfer listed striker Robbie Matthews could also be on his way out, after Gateshead manager Ian Bogie asked to talk to the towering hitman about a possible move to the North East club.

Harriers are keen to get Matthews, who is contracted for next season, off the wage bill.

The sticking point could be travel as the centre forward lives near Salisbury.

n Meanwhile, Burr was on duty with England C as coach this week, as the national semi-professional team played a Republic of Ireland side last night in the International Challenge Trophy at Waterford United.