KIDDERMINSTER boss Mark Yates has settled into the Harriers hotseat by issuing a stern warning to managers trying to poach his best players.

Much of the new manager's first week in the job has been spent trying to fend off suitors for Mark Jackson, Iyseden Christie and Wayne Hatswell.

York and Shrewsbury are still tracking Jackson, while Bristol Rovers are continuing to be linked with Christie and Hatswell is rumoured to be attracting interest from Rushden and Diamonds.

But Yates insisted: "I'm going to deal with things my way and no-one is going to bully me into making decisions just because they think I'm new.

"I'll only be making decisions that suit Kidderminster Harriers.

"I've already told a number of people who are trying to disrupt my squad that if it doesn't suit us, it won't happen."

But despite his strong words, Yates knows he will be powerless to prevent the trio leaving if the offers are right and the players wish to go.

"There's nothing to report, we've had inquiries but no bids so there's nothing to worry about.," he said.

"By the time the paper goes to press on Thursday something could have happened but I'm hoping not.

"I'll be doing my utmost to keep the ones I want to keep. Your better players have to be part of your plans and I think everybody knows that they are three of the better players."

Meanwhile, one player who Harriers look set to be without from now on is Martin O'Connor. The veteran midfielder is believed to be negotiating a settlement on his contract, which has five months left to run.

O'Connor, who was brought in as a player coach by Stuart Watkiss and recently filled in as caretaker boss, is thought to be disappointed at not having a coaching role under the new regime.

The former Blues and Walsall captain was an influential presence on the pitch during the early part of the season.

But a niggly knee injury has limited his involvement and the latest developments could force him to hang up his boots half a season ahead of schedule.

Meanwhile, Shrewsbury striker Duane Darby has admitted that a move to Kidderminster would appeal to him after being released.

The former Rushden and Torquay striker says he has had no contact from Harriers but is open to offers.

"I live in Bromsgrove so it's just down the road and would suit me down to the ground , but I've not heard from them," said Darby. "I spoke to Martin O'Connor when he was in charge but nothing has happened since then so we'll see."

Having played in FA Trophy finals Yates and assistant Neil Howarth are big fans of the competition and will be expecting all out effort from the squad at home to Grays Athletic on Saturday.

Daryl Burgess is suspended for the match so Patrick Flynn could come in at right back with Johnny Mullins switching to central defence.

At the game fans' groups 250-Club and KHIST will donate £350 from a fund-raising race night to Phil Mullen on behalf of the youth team.

l KHIST are hoping to team up with Harriers to run an 89-seater executive coach to the LDV Vans Trophy northern area semi final at Carlisle United on Tuesday, January 24.

The cost will be £13 adults and £10 concessions. Phone Dave Weaver on 01562 515235 for further details.