New-look Harriers take on Albion

Kidderminster Harriers boss Steve Burr admits the timing could have been better for his new-look side as they open pre-season at home to a full-strength Albion team.

The players only returned to training on Monday from their summer break, but at the end of their first week back will take on Premier League opposition tomorrow (12:30pm), with the Baggies promising to play the strongest side available to them.

Only Gonzalo Jara, Marek Cech and Chris Wood - given an extended break after being with their countries for the World Cup - are expected to be absent, with Albion playing the game and then leaving for a pre-season tour of Holland on Sunday.

But Roberto Di Matteo's men - who could name former Harriers loan player Rueben Reid in their squad - present a mouthwatering match for home fans, as Aggborough opens for business ahead of the Blue Square Premier season.

Boss Burr will himself field a number of new signings and admits his team will have liked more time to prepare, but admits it was either play the Baggies tomorrow or not at all.

He said: "The game has maybe come a bit too early for as we have only been back in this week, so it's been a case of getting down to things and the new lads getting to know everyone.

"But, with Albion's first-team coming down, it was a great opportunity for our lads to play against a Premier League team and it's fantastic for the club.

"It's not just great for the home crowd, as their supporters will want to see the players that got them promoted, while our fans will want to take a look at one or two new signings as well."