Riley's backing for Harriers veteran

Kidderminster Harriers defender Martin Riley has backed Marcus Bignot to again do a job if called upon for the huge FA Trophy semi-final against Stevenage.

The 35-year-old started his first game since returning to the club on non-contract forms last month in the goalless draw at Eastbourne on Saturday, in a holding midfield role with assistant boss John Finnigan out with a calf injury.

Finnigan has yet to train this week after sitting out the trip, but is hopeful of being fit for the game none of the players wants to miss - Saturday's first leg at Aggborough.

Harriers could get one foot in the door to Wembley ahead of the return game seven days later and Bignot, after playing 74 minutes in the last game, is in contention to keep his place.

And Riley believes the experienced campaigner will be ready if called upon.

The 22-year-old said: "Marcus has done alright, in fact he has come into the club and immediately fitted in well with the lads, so he brings a lot to a young team. It was only ever going to strengthen the squad bringing someone of his experience in, and his fitness levels appear to be very good.

"He certainly didn't seem to struggle on Saturday."

Riley was linked with a move to Stevenage in the summer with his contract up at Aggborough, but eventually opted to stay with Harriers and sign a new one-year deal.

But now his only focus is Saturday's game, and the hope of making a first Wembley appearance as a player.

He said: "I heard the whispers as well in the summer, but nothing was ever put to me about Stevenage. They are a big club obviously and won the trophy last year, so from our point of view we know it's going to be a tough game.

"But we are confident that we can do a job."