Dean Lyness warns Harriers No 1

Kidderminster Harriers new-boy Dean Lyness has vowed to take the fight for the goalkeeper's jersey to Player of the Year Danny Lewis.

The two custodians will slug it out to be No 1 next season after former England under-17 international Lyness signed a one-year contract on Wednesday.

The 19-year-old has warmed the bench at Birmingham and Scottish Premier League club Hearts but has yet to make a competitive appearance at senior level.

Lyness hopes that will change at Aggborough but he will find a formidable foe in Lewis, a virtual ever-present last season which saw him sign a new two-year contract in March.

Lewis' previous understudy, Andrew Stevens, was released in the summer without getting a look in but Lyness hasn't come to sit on the bench.

He said: "Anyone who is in the game is looking to play first-team football and it is just about working hard.

"Danny obviously had a great season last season and I am looking forward to working with him and challenging him for that place.

"The relationship between goalkeepers is a different one to most, because of the amount of time you have to spend together.

"You become close and that really helps in being able to push one another on.

"If I get my chance this season, I will do my best to take it and repay some of the faith the gaffer has shown in me to bring me to the club."

Lyness is West Midlands based, in Halesowen, and insists he will quickly settle after 'growing up' in Scotland.

He said: "I was only 17 when I moved up to Scotland and I have lived on my own for two years, so it was an absolutely massive step.

"But it has been a great experience and, hopefully, I can bring some of that down to Kidderminster with me and contribute something to the season.

"There are some really strong ambitions at this club and everyone is confident we can have a good year."