KIDDERMINSTER Harriers' 2017-18 captain Ryan Croasdale has joined AFC Fylde for £50,000 after putting in a transfer request.

The influential midfielder moves up a level to the National League club after two seasons at Aggborough.

Lancaster-born Croasdale, 23, wanted to move back to the north-west and the transfer includes potential future payments and a substantial sell-on.

The former Preston North End player made 91 appearances for Harriers, scoring 10 goals.

Harriers chairman Colin Gordon said: “This was not something we had planned for and had expected Ryan to again lead us next season but ultimately as a young man with a young family we have a duty to support him in his wishes and this is something he has specifically requested.

“But while the manager (Neil MacFarlane) fully understands Ryan’s reasoning he’s equally adamant that anyone who doesn’t want to be here is welcome to move on.

“His focus is solely on working with the squad we’re putting together for next season.

"While I understand supporters will be disappointed to see Ryan leave us they can be assured that our record for recruiting and developing new talent is second to none and we’re working hard to make sure that what is already an exciting squad for next season is strengthened even further.”

Meanwhile, young Harriers centre-half Fraser Horsfall is being linked with a move to Premiership new boys Wolverhampton Wanderers.

The 21-year-old impressed last season in National League North after joining from Huddersfield Town.

He has also been linked with QPR with his former manager John Eustace and coach Matt Gardiner now at Loftus Road.