KIDDERMINSTER Harriers have completed the loan signing of Aston Villa Under-21s captain Kevin Toner on a one-month youth loan.

The 19-year-old centre-half goes straight in to the squad for tomorrow’s home game against Lincoln City at Aggborough (3pm) when Harriers will pursue their first Vanarama National League win of the season at the 11th attempt.

Having progressed through the ranks at Villa Park, Toner has already established himself at the Premier League club at Under-21s level, while also picking up five caps for Republic of Ireland Under-19s.

His no-nonsense displays for Villa have earned plenty of plaudits and a host of Premier League clubs, including Leicester City, Newcastle United and Stoke City, were linked with the youngster before he penned a new deal in the Midlands during the summer.

Toner said: “I’ve heard about the physicality of this level and how it is different to the Under-21s. Everyone has told me, but it will be good to get involved with the real football and playing against men.”

Though yet to make a first-team appearance, Toner has been described as dominant in the air and tough in the tackle.

He also provides a serious goal threat at set-pieces because of his height and physical presence.

Meanwhile, former Harriers manager Gary Whild denied he has been “shoved upstairs” after being named the club’s head of football operations.

Tim Flowers was promoted to head coach and will focus on training, while previous assistant Mark Creighton has left Aggborough by mutual consent.

Whild said: “I don’t know so much about titles. I’ve heard people say I’ve been shoved upstairs but I am not into that type of thing.

“Tim and I are working as hard as we can with the lads to try and get some results for the club, who are in a very difficult position.

“Mark was a great servant to the club and a favourite. I don’t think anyone’s pointing a finger at him.”