Coleman No 1 for Harriers boss

Harriers kick-off at home to Hayes & Yeading in their Blue Square Premier curtain-raiser, with last season's second-choice set to be handed his opportunity after the summer departure of Adam Bartlett to Hereford.

The 23-year-old sat out all of 2008/09 waiting for his chance to get past the England C international and into the Harriers' goalkeeping jersey, which the manager has now confirmed will be his for the taking come the big kick-off.

But the search is on to bring in competition to keep the former Walsall prospect on his toes.

Released Barnsley goalkeeper Kyle Letheren has already had his chance in pre-season to stake a claim, but has since left the club.

Former Shrewsbury youngster Jasbir Singh played in last night's Worcestershire Senior Cup defeat to Evesham, and could be retained if he continues to impress.

But Yates has told Coleman he is his first-choice - as long as he produces the goods in between the sticks.

The Harriers boss said: "He will be number one at the moment, that is where we are. What we are trying to do is bring a young goalkeeper in to challenge him and keep him on his toes, because every club needs competition for places.

"Dean has waited for his chance for a long time now, and he will be given that opportunity. We are looking forward to seeing him make that spot his own."

Harriers have also announced they have signed youth team players Nathan Hayward and Zac Costello to one-year professional deals.

Both started for a young side in last night's 1-0 defeat, staged at Worcester City.