EX-WORCESTER City striker Andy Preece has sparked talk of a return to the county after revealing a desire to manage at Coca-Cola League Two level again.

Preece, who hails from Upton Snodsbury and also played for Evesham United, admitted his interest in the vacant Kidderminster Harriers and Shrewsbury Town posts.

Both clubs need a man to steer them clear of relegation trouble and Preece previously led cash-strapped Bury for four years before his dismissal as player-boss in December 2003.

The former Crystal Palace, Blackpool and Stockport star has bagged five goals this season at Paul Simpson's Carlisle United after nearly helping them escape relegation to the Conference last year.

Preece, 37, admitted: "I'm not going to be playing in six or seven years' time so I have to look long-term and that's why I have to be interested when these jobs come up.

"I'm enjoying playing at Carlisle and I'm not wanting to leave but if a management opportunity arises I need to look at it."

Harriers are not commenting on speculation but further names linked have been Wolves legend Steve Bull, ex-Hereford boss Colin Addison and Jake King who managed Telford and Shrewsbury.