KIDDERMINSTER Harriers aim to conclude their lengthy search for a new head coach next week.

The club, which has been inundated with applications for the role, have drawn up a shortlist and will hold interviews on Friday and Sunday.

Harriers have said the new man must have a proven track record developing youth players.

Chairman Rod Brown stated at the weekend the club have identified a top target who “ticks all the boxes” but is currently under contract elsewhere.

However, with their pursuit of the unnamed figure taking longer than expected, Kidderminster have decided to talk to other applicants and hope to make an announcement by next Tuesday’s trip to Altrincham (7.45pm ko).

With Gary Whild and Tim Flowers departing on September 21, the club are well aware time is of the essence with the team bottom of the Vanarama National League.

Former Peterborough United coach Gavin Strachan is believed to be interested in the job but chairman Rod Brown has also dismissed rumours the club wanted to tempt back former manager Steve Burr, who is currently under contract at Chester.

The Shuttle understands there has been no approach to Solihull Moors for their boss Marcus Bignot.

Development director Colin Gordon revealed he has no desire to take over as head coach but will have a wider remit at the club.

He said: “My role on the football side will be making sure we can acquire, prepare and develop good talent.

“We’ve got to produce our own players, with a philosophy that is Kidderminster Harriers, with a style of play that is synonymous with the club. I want every fan in this ground to know what we’re trying to achieve.

“We’re going to be a teaching and coaching club and I want the fans to appreciate what we’re going to be.”

He added: “We will be drawing a shortlist up, we know the people we want to interview and that process will begin in earnest on Friday.

“I don’t want to be in the technical area, I want to be involved in all the major football decisions going forward.

“The best use of my ability is to use the contacts, knowledge and experience I have got to the benefit of the club for the next ten years.”

Meanwhile, the search for a first win of the season continues after a loss to Welling and frustrating draw with Boreham on Tuesday.

Gordon has said he wants to bring in a new striker before Saturday’s trip to Macclesfield (12.30pm kick-off), with Fleetwood hitman Ashley Hunter believed to be a possible target.

Gordon remains a football agent and client Steve Pressley has taken the reins at Fleetwood this week.

His right-hand man, Neil McFarlane, has also joined the League One side after a brief spell helping out Kidderminster.

Jamie Spencer has joined Rushall Olympic on loan, with Keyon Reffell and Reece Hales extending their spells at Halesowen.

Harriers are waiting for the FA to okay Gary Cater's place on the board.

Follow The Shuttle’s live match updates from Saturday’s trip to Macclesfield.