KIDDERMINSTER Harriers striker Freddie Ladapo has been loaned out to Grays Athletic.

The former Colchester United man was signed by Andy Thorn in January but has found first-team action limited.

After debuting in the FA Cup fourth round clash at Sunderland, Ladapo started just two games and quickly fell out of favour with new manager Gary Whild.

After starting pre-season at Aggborough, the frontman has recently been playing with the Essex-based Blues and enjoyed a fine summer campaign, notching four goals in their pre-season contests so far.

The two clubs have now formalised the arrangement and the youngster will remain on loan at Grays until January.

Meanwhile, Whild believes veteran full-back Kevin Nicholson’s wage demands could provide a stumbling block to a deal being agreed.

The 33-year-old free agent played the entire game as the Aggborough outfit drew 1-1 with Shrewsbury on Tuesday night.

“Kevin hasn’t got anything at the moment, which is surprising,” said Harriers’ boss. “He’s been training but that was his first game and I thought he did well.

“Kevin showed why he has played over 500 league games, he is competent on the ball with a good left foot.

“We haven’t got as far as talking about his circumstances, but the Shrewsbury game was a good chance for him to come and play. I haven’t asked him about Cheltenham yet but we’ll see where are.”

Nicholson was a popular figure at Torquay, featuring 272 times for The Gulls, before his departure this summer. He also played for Forest Green Rovers, Notts County and Scarborough.

The Reds complete their pre-season programme against Cheltenham today (3pm).