John Eustace: Kidderminster Harriers will not panic

The Aggborough outfit have had full-back Zaine Francis-Angol leave to join National League side AFC Fylde.

The 23-year-old was offered fresh terms by Harriers, but has joined the Coasters on a two-and-a-half-year deal, with the option of a further year.

The former Tottenham and Motherwell man made 38 appearances in National League North last season for Harriers, who finished second, behind title-winners Fylde, before losing to Chorley in a play-off semi-final.

He joins defender Jordan Tunnicliffe in leaving the club for Mill Farm, and Eustace also recently lost last season’s top scorer, forward Arthur Gnahoua as he signed for League One side Shrewsbury Town.

“We are really disappointed that Zaine has left the club,” said the Harriers chief.

“He played very well for us last year and I was looking forward to working with him again and him kicking on here.

“I’m sure he will do well at Fylde though and we wish him all the best in the future.

“We have lost two or three of our outstanding performers from last year, going on to a higher level, but nobody is going to be panicking.”

National League North looks set to be more competitive than ever next term as the likes of York City, Stockport County and big-spending Salford City battle it out.

And while some clubs in the division have been very active so far, Eustace thinks being patient will pay off and said: “Taking our time is important, of course it is.

“We have got a very good group and adding to that group, we have to make sure any players coming are of good quality and are good characters as well.

“They can be young or old, as long as they want to play here and they fit the ball – wanting to better themselves and the team – that’s what we want. We are not going to panic.”