Harriers confirm McPhee signing

McPhee favoured Harriers over offers from Football League clubs

Kidderminster Harriers have confirmed they have signed midfielder Chris McPhee on a two-year contract.

Harriers manager Mark Yates told BBC Hereford and Worcester they had worked particularly hard to seal the deal with the former Weymouth player.

"Chris isn't motivated by money; he wants to enjoy his football and be treated properly," he said.

"He's turned down league clubs to come here, and credit to the club because we have put a package together [for him]."

McPhee's cameo towards the end of last season was arguably one of the most memorable in Harriers' recent history.

He arrived at Aggborough in February after becoming an unwitting victim of the major problems that beset Weymouth,

The 26-year-old was an influential part of the midfield that made major strides towards the play-offs as he scored three goals in 16 appearances, in just over two months.

A free agent in the summer, McPhee remained in close contact with Yates but looked to be set for a return to the Football League with Cheltenham Town expressing major interest.

Yates said he was delighted to have beaten off the competition as he regards McPhee as being key to his plans for the coming season.

He plays the right way and with a smile on his face, he'll be a massive part of our squad

Mark Yates on Chris McPhee

"He's a great lad and the right character we want at the football club," he said.

"He plays the right way and with a smile on his face, he'll be a massive part of our squad."

Harriers have received some financial assistance from supporters' group Kidderminster Harriers Independent Supporters Trust to help complete the deal and Yates paid tribute to the fans for their efforts.

"We much appreciate what KHIST have done to contribute towards bringing Chris back," Yates added.

"I think it's safe to say it was in everyone's best interests that we got him back on board and KHIST agreed to help us out, and we're all very grateful for that."

Centre-back Martin Riley will also be with Harriers next season after signing a new one-year deal with the Aggborough club.

The 20-year-old joined Harriers last season and is keen to build on what was a successful debut campaign.

"I thought I did well last season as it was my first chance to get some first-team football," he said.

"I've got everything sorted now and it's good to be back at Kiddy so let's get cracking on next season," he added.

Former Wolves player Riley had to be patient following his arrival at Aggborough before finally making his first-team debut against Grays Athletic in November.

He took his chance with both hands as a string of consistent performances led to him seldom missing out again for the remainder of the campaign.

Harriers will open their pre-season friendly programme on Friday 10 July when they travel to Bromyard Town.