Harriers in pre-season without Lyness

Kidderminster Harriers' new-boys today began pre-season training but goalkeeper Dean Lyness looks to have left the club after not reporting back.

Lyness is in talks about a move into the Football League with Burton Albion, who released Harriers' latest capture Ryan Austin this summer.

Austin signed a one-year deal and linked up with fellow signings Exodus Geohaghon, Ricky Shakes, Danny Pilkington and Cheyenne Dunkley.

They were the fresh faces at the Chainwire Sports Ground in Kidderminster, as they prepare for the Blue Square Premier season.

Giant defender Geohaghon towered over most of his new team-mates at 6ft 5in and fellow centre-backs Austin, 27, and Hednesford departee Dunkley.

And Harriers manager Steve Burr believes he's strengthened significantly at the back after beating off Football League interest to land his targets.

He said: "Ryan, like Exodus, had been holding talks with a number of Football League clubs.

"I must say that both he and Exodus have been an absolute pleasure to talk to.

"These two boys were very keen to come here and are desperate to impress. Without a doubt, I consider our defence to be strengthened."

Burr also confirmed Lyness is set to join the Brewers, but Harriers will receive a 're-engagement' fee after offering him a contract.

The Harriers boss said: "It will be a big blow to lose Dean and nobody will be more disappointed than me, because he is a very good goalkeeper.

"But I can understand that this is a fantastic opportunity for Dean."