RESPECT for manager Jan Molby is the key to Kidderminster Harriers impressive climb to the top of the Nationwide Conference.

That's the firm belief of Aggborough midfielder Andy Brownrigg, who has recently returned to league action after a lengthy lay-off following a cartilage operation.

"You just have to look at what he did as a player," says the 23-year-old, who was Molby's first signing. "Because of that, I think he has the respect of everyone in the club. We're just responding to that.

"It's a great thing, respect. If you have that for starters, then you have a good base for anything."

The former Hereford United campaigner, who has also been on Norwich City's books, is convinced that Molby and his assistant Gary Barnett are the ideal combination to take Kidderminster into the League.

After losing four of their opening five matches, Harriers have steadily risen to the top of the table and went into this afternoon's home clash with Sutton United three points clear of their nearest rivals, the well-heeled Rushden & Diamonds.

And Brownrigg believes such a dramatic upturn in fortunes is very much down to the former Liverpool and Danish international.

"The training's good. It's enjoyable as well as hard work. He's got us motivated and up there at the top.

"He's brought me to Aggborough and given me a second chance. He's a great motivator and he's done everything in the game as a player.

"Whoever he brings to the club - even the likes of Mike Marsh and Phil King, who've been there and done it - they have the utmost respect for him."

Although Kidderminster are in top spot, Brownrigg's well aware that staying there until the end of the season will be tough.

"It's a big challenge. It's going to be hard and clubs are going to want to knock us down but, hopefully, we can withstand it and, come May, we'll be a Football League club."