KIDDERMINSTER Harriers are waiting on the fitness of key men James McQuilkin and Dan Bradley ahead of this Saturday's clash with Blyth Spartans.

The duo, along with forward Joe Ironside, have been forced to miss a host of the Reds' recent clashes due to injury.

While Ironside was back in the starting 11 against Deeping Rangers last Saturday, Bradley and McQuilkin again missed out and are both rated as 50/50 to feature against Blyth by manager John Eustace.

The Aggborough boss thinks the recent absences have hindered Harriers but is pleased with how others have stepped up.

Will Longbottom, Declan Weeks, Josh Webb and Andre Brown all came into the side that beat Southport 12 days ago and Weeks, Brown and new arrival James Pearson featured in the 4-2 FA Cup success over Deeping.

Eustace said: "We have been affected by the injuries lately, which is among the reasons for our up and down form. Everyone is starting to look sharper now so hopefully we're another step towards where we want to be.

"We'll assess Dan and James ahead of the weekend. They're both 50/50 at the moment.

"The players that have come into the side have done really well and I'm really pleased with the young group. There are some encouraging signs, the attitude and desire is right and there are a lot of positives to take forward, especially the win at Southport.

"Blyth are a very good team but it's a game we're looking forward to. It could be a good opportunity for us to push on.

"There are a number of reasons our form has been up and down so far this season but everyone is working together to make sure the new signings all gel."

Harriers have been drawn away against Newcastle Benfield in the third qualifying round of the FA Cup.

Reds will take on the Northern League Division One outfit over the weekend of September 30 following the Deeping win.

Meanwhile, The club have announced the appointment of former Oxford United man Andy Whing as new head coach of the under-23s.

Birmingham-born Whing enjoyed a stellar career of almost 400 senior appearances as a player for the Us, Coventry City and Brighton among others.

The 32-year-old replaces former Harriers manager and captain Mark Yates who has been axed from the role after just two months.