COMPETITION for places is vitally important to aid Kidderminster Harriers' Coca-Cola League Two relegation fight, according to boss Stuart Watkiss.

The Harriers manager has been busy strengthening his squad this week and, despite their lowly position, believes eventually there will be no excuses for players to slip into a comfort zone.

Skipper Wayne Hatswell's return from a four-game ban at home to Lincoln City tomorrow ups the chase for a role in the back-line where new signing Billy Jones is set to make his debut.

Left-back Jones, snapped up on a free transfer from Leyton Orient, replaces the released Jon Beswetherick, while Hatswell will be vying to shift the central defensive pairing of John Mullins and ex-Lincoln man Simon Weaver.

As well as the addition of Jones, Watkiss has also been after extra attacking wing threat which should be provided by former Bohemians winger Dave Morrison who can operate on either flank.

He is also trying to sign Doncaster's John McGrath, an Aston Villa old boy who can hug the left touchline, and two more midfielders to stoke up the battle for shirts.

Watkiss said: "We need competition for places to keep the players on their toes. Then if they're not performing or coming up to scratch we can change things.

"The new signings will give us extra impetus and if I can get another couple in as I want to, then we will have proper competition for the first time in a long time."

And Watkiss has asked fans to be patient with Jones who has not played any first-team football this season but can boast nearly 80 Orient appearances under his belt.

He admitted: "It might take Billy three or four games to really find his feet."

Meanwhile, Lincoln arrive at Aggborough on the back of 1-0 wins over Bury and Chester which have catapulted Keith Alexander's side into the final play-off place.

They have only conceded once in five games, in a 1-0 defeat at Wycombe.

And Simon Yeo has proved to be a super-sub, scoring the winner at Chester to take his tally to nine goals for the season.

Harriers have lost their last two games at Aggborough, 5-1 to Swansea and 3-1 to Southend.

Watkiss added: "Lincoln have their own unique way of playing, they are very direct. But one thing you can't knock them for is their teamwork and competitiveness.

"If we don't stand up to them, we will be in for another disappointing afternoon."

Weaver played more than 100 games at Lincoln before leaving for Harriers this season.

He warned: "They've got talented players who, as well as being strong and athletic, are sharp and alert so it's a big test for us."