STUART Watkiss has moved to resolve the future of his players - even though his own future at Aggborough remains unclear.

While the battle for control of the club goes on behind the scenes, Watkiss faces the unenviable task of ploughing on without a clear budget and without a clear guarantee that he will still be in charge next season.

It is of great credit to the Harriers boss that he has continued to plan for next season without complaining of the limbo he finds himself in.

Watkiss has only offered new deals to four players - Dean Keates, Mark Rawle, Chris Beardsley and Adam Chambers - in addition to the eight he already has contracted.

Of those eight, Wayne Hatswell has been transferlisted following a difficult season for the committed club captain.

Watkiss's decision to release Hatswell is more to do with the player's high wages than his ability with the skipper confident of overcoming his poor form to do a solid job in the Conference.

Also on their way out of Aggborough are Simon Weaver, Billy Jones, Blair Sturrock, Lee Jenkins, Abdou Sall, John McGrath, Ian Foster, Gary Birch and Bertrand Cozic.

It brings to an end Foster's long association with the club and although the Scouse striker's form has dipped recently he is still a popular figure with fans.

All of the other released players have shown glimpses of their talent but have failed to perform on a consistent basis.

Of those offered new deals, Keates is bound to attract interest from Football League clubs, while Beardsley has expressed his desire to leave after talking to an unnamed League Two club.

Despite not knowing how much cash he will have at his disposal, Watkiss has already identified several transfer targets.

Three players from the cull at Shrewsbury Town are known to interest the Harriers boss, but their wages could be a stumbling block.

Left back/centre half Trevor Challis has spoken to Watkiss, who is also keen on talking to Gay Meadow utility man Jake Sedgemore.

Exciting winger Sam Aiston is also on his potential wanted list, but Harriers are unlikely to be able to afford him.

l John Danby has been named the Shuttle/Times and News' star man of 2004-05 after topping the match ratings throughout the season. He beat Keates by one man of the match award.

l Harriers shareholders have been informed that the club will hold their annual meeting in the Aggborough suite at 7pm on Tuesday June 7.