John Eustace named Kidderminster boss

Kidderminster Harriers have unveiled John Eustace as their new manager.

The 36-year-old former Stoke, Watford and Derby County midfielder has already spent time assessing the squad at Aggborough.

He's expected to be present in time for the final fixture of the campaign at Southport next weekend.

The club is also hopeful of securing a deal to bring in Worcester City joint-boss Matt Gardiner as head coach.

Born in Solihull, Eustace has penned an initial one-year deal and will be tasked with getting the Harriers back into the National League at the first attempt next term.

It has yet to be decided whether they will compete in the National League North or South.

Speaking on the appointment, chief executive Colin Gordon said: "In choosing John we have made an appointment for the long-term and I know full well what we are getting.

"I've known him for over 10 years, he's an astute professional with an incredible understanding of the game.

"He has had a great career as a player at the highest level and it's very clear that he is going to be a fantastic coach and manager.

"John has watched a lot of our games this season, especially recently, and knows exactly the direction he wants to go in."

On bringing in Eustace and looking to add Gardiner, chairman Rod Brown said: "We're tremendously excited by this appointment.

"John is someone who is very highly thought of by some very prominent people in the game, and we're very fortunate to have him here.

"We always knew that John wouldn't be able to do this job alone and that experience, within the management team of the level, we'd be playing at was crucial.

"We're currently in discussions with Matt about fulfilling the role as there's little doubt that he'd be a huge asset to us.

"We're grateful to Worcester for giving us permission to speak with Matt and are hopeful of being able to come to an agreement with him soon."