GARY Whild admitted that money issues forced his hand as midfielder Kyle Storer exited Kidderminster Harriers.

Supporters were stunned this week when the Aggborough outfit announced the popular 27-year-old had agreed to leave by mutual consent because of a contractual wrangle.

Storer had signed a two year deal in March 2013, which contained a clause that would have extended his stay at Aggborough and increased his wages, if he had played 30 games this season.

However, with benefactors Kath and Ernie Lane still assisting the cash-strapped club, action was needed.

Storer joined from Nuneaton in the summer of 2011 and became a key man under former boss Steve Burr – who also made him captain.

Storer lead Harriers to second-place in the Football Conference as they qualified for the play-offs in the 2012-13 season, and to the FA Cup Fourth Round 12 months ago. He had made over 150 appearances for the club and has now joined Wrexham until May.

Storer’s exit is the latest challenge for manager Whild, who has been forced to deal with off the pitch issues which have came back to haunt the club, such as Freddie Ladapo’s exit.

“I played a big part in bringing Kyle to the club and he was an important part of the team which finished second in the league,” said Whild.

“But the club’s situation has changed since he signed his deal and it needed to be dealt with.

“We have been open, honest and professional with Kyle in our negotiations and he’s said he understands the situation we are in, and appreciates our efforts.

“Kyle’s been a big part of this club’s success and we wish him the best of luck. It’s not the first time that a decision taken by the club has come back to haunt us.”

Despite being a man down in midfield, Whild says his priority is to draft in a striker.

Lee Hughes, who is contracted to Forest Green Rovers, remains a target, but Kidderminster’s management are working hard to find a solution to their goal-scoring woes.

The manager added: “I don’t think bringing in someone in midfield is one our main priorities, we’re still looking for someone who can put the ball in the back of the net on a regular basis.

“We’re working very hard to find someone and we’ve got two or three targets.

“We’re still in a good position and you don’t want to look back in a month’s time and regret we’ve not given it our best shot,” said Whild.

Harriers, who remain fifth in the Vanarama Conference, face an important clash when they take on promotion rivals Eastleigh at home on Saturday, for a 3pm kick-off.

Eastleigh edged out Kidderminster 1-0 at Aggborough in the FA Cup Fourth Qualifying Round in October.

Key centre back Josh Gowling is set to hand the Reds a boost when he returns to action, after recovering from a knee injury which forced him out of the last eight games.

The manager added: “Fingers crossed that Josh will be fit, he’s an important player for us.”

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