MARTIN O'Connor has backed Kidderminster Harriers' young midfielders to continue shining in his absence.

The caretaker-boss is struggling to return from a knee problem but believes the emerging Russ Penn and Simon Heslop, along with the experienced Terry Fleming, are worthy replacements.

O'Connor also has his hands full plotting a much-needed victory in Harriers' FA Trophy first round clash with Scarborough at Aggborough tomorrow.

He continues to distance himself from the permanent job after the Kidderminster board met yesterday to draw up a shortlist of six before interviews start next week.

The former Birmingham City man, who took over from Stuart Watkiss after his sacking last week, admitted: "I'd rather be asked to do the job than put my name forward."

O'Connor, 38, frustrated by his six-week injury lay-off, said: "I'd rather be in the middle of the park but, me being me, I've probably pushed myself to get back a little too quickly.

"However, the lads in that midfield area have done superbly so I've no qualms about playing them."

But O'Connor was not so complimentary about the senior players involved in Harriers' 2-1 defeat to Halesowen in the Wor-cestershire Senior Cup on Wednesday.

John Danby, Wayne Graves, Gavin Hurren, Chris McHale, Laurie Wilson and Gareth Sheldon were meant to add experience alongside youth teamers.

O'Connor added: "They have been told in no uncertain terms that I was not happy and am not going to put up with that performance. I was disappointed with it."