JAN Molby certainly sprang a surprise with the inclusion of 39-year-old Eric Nixon in the Harriers goal on Saturday.

Kidderminster's boss secured the non-contract signing of his friend, who is Tranmere Rover's goalkeeping coach, late last week.

Nixon immediately looked more than dependable against Cheltenham and at Doncaster on Tuesday.

Though his last full game was in January 2000 for Tranmere against Huddersfield, 6ft 4ins Nixon's coaching duties mean he has been staying in shape.

Set to play in the final game of Stuart Brock's suspension at Carlisle on Saturday, he has made more than 450 Football League appearances.

Nixon has turned out for Manchester City, Tranmere, Stockport and Wigan as well as a string of loan spells at well-known clubs.

And he has proved he is true to his word after stating: "I would like to think I can still do a job in goal. When Jan asked me, I had no hesitation.

"I've known Jan for many years and played against him when I was at Manchester City and he was at Liverpool. We live in the same district on the Wirral."

Nixon admitted his first impressions have been good, adding: "I'm well impressed with the club and there are some great players. Both sets of fans were fantastic on Saturday."