KIDDERMINSTER Harriers' intended loan capture of Taiwo Atieno has been put on hold while the striker makes up his mind.

Boss Stuart Watkiss wants to secure the Walsall prospect, 20, on an initial five-month loan but it is believed he may have had second thoughts about dropping down to the Nationwide Conference.

The bustling 6ft 2ins front man progressed through the Coca-Cola League One outfit's centre of excellence and bagged Football League goals on loan at Rochdale and Chester last season.

Atieno, who has made three substitute appearances and a League Cup start for the Saddlers, was a regular in their reserve side.

Harriers were confident the player would sign yesterday but they may now face competition from higher-ranked clubs in the Football League.

Manager Watkiss said: "He's a big lad with tremendous pace and great athleticism and he's done well in the Walsall reserve side as well as having some League experience."

The Brixton-born forward played 16 games for Rochdale, scoring twice, and netted once in four games at Chester.

Meanwhile, Watkiss will not offer a contract to trialist striker Gary McPhee who has now left Aggborough ahead of the Conference opener with Woking on Saturday.