KIDDERMINSTER Harriers are set to be handed a boost on the eve of the new National League North season thanks to a double loan deal.

Reds are on the brink of capturing young Liverpool defensive prospect Rhys Williams and Shrewsbury goalkeeper Cameron Gregory.

Williams has been a regular for Liverpool's under-18s and under-19s in the UEFA Youth League, and recently stepped up to feature for the club's under-23s.

The 18-year-old signed his first professional contract at Anfield in February and also made his international debut for England under-18s.

Gregory, 19, has come through the ranks at Shrewsbury and has featured as a trialist during the early part of Kidderminster's pre-season programme.

Both are set to arrive in time for Harriers to kick off the new campaign when Leamington visit Aggborough this Saturday (3pm kick-off).

Manager John Pemberton has been keen to add quality to a thin first-team squad but has had to be patient to get the players he wanted.

He said: "I think pre-season has gone well with regards to the work we've done. It's obvious we've been short of numbers but I have a certain budget to work to and we've had to be patient to get the right type of players.

"We had a few knock-backs and had to wait for parent clubs to agree but it's good to get a couple done and dusted now.

"It was important to me to get better players that will enhance the team rather than just go and get similar to what we already have.

"I really wanted Rhys but had to wait to be able to get him. He'll give us a presence at the back and the same can also be said of Cameron too.

"I know not being able to see players coming in has been frustrating for some people and for the fans but that hasn't been the case for me.

"I know what we have to work with and we've all just got on with it.

"We do want a few more if possible but I'll just put that to my bosses and see where we go.

"I must say the players already at the club have worked extremely hard and showed a brilliant attitude and a real willingness to want to get better. I hope the fans will see that.

"Hopefully everything is coming together now and we can get off to a good start even though it's a difficult game against Leamington."