MERSON mania is set to hit Aggborough on Wednesday when Walsall will be the visitors for a pre-season friendly against Kidderminster Harriers (7.30pm).

Since his shock move to the Bescot Stadium, Paul Merson has generated intense interest in the Saddlers' 'warm-up' campaign.

And the former England international's appearance at Aggborough is set to provide Harriers with another healthy gate following last Monday's 2,501 for the game with Premiership newcomers Leicester City and the expected bumper crowd for this afternoon's clash with West Bromwich Albion.

On the night Harriers entertained the Foxes, Merson was in action for the Saddlers in a friendly against Dr Martens Premier League outfit Hednesford Town at Keys Park.

Queues

The kick-off had to be delayed for 15 minutes to allow queues of people to get into the ground.

Merson responded by scoring an 18th minute goal in his side's 2-0 victory.

He received a warm ovation and spent time signing autographs.

Harriers are again expected to field a number of trialists in the game.

Two of them who had been hoping to impress manager Ian Britton, however, have been told they will not be offered a contract.

They are former Walsall midfielder Eliot Paschalis and ex-Bradford City striker Mark Danks.

Britton said: "Eliot and Mark can feel unfortunate because they have trained hard and done well but I can't take everybody."