STEVE Burton is relishing his battle with Wayne Hatswell for the left back berth after being given a chance to revive his Kidderminster career.

Boss Stuart Watkiss has employed both Burton and Hatswell in that role during the pre-season programme, sparking friendly competition between the two.

"Hats has been playing left back as well so it looks like it's a fight between me and him," said Burton.

"If I don't start the season in the team I will be disappointed, but if that's the case it's up to me to work hard and force my way in.

"It's a nice battle because Hats is a good lad, we get on well and we drive in to the training ground together.

"But football is all about competition for places and I'm sure if you asked him the same question he'd have no problem with the competition because it's healthy at the club."

Burton is glad to be in Harriers' plans at all after falling out of favour with Watkiss during last season's miserable relegation season.

Watkiss openly accused the former Hull check defender of being unprofessional for rejecting proposed moves to Redditch, Accrington Stanley and Singapore.

But the 22-year-old, signed by Jan Molby, is hoping to prove Watkiss wrong after being offered a second chance by the manager.

"Last season was a disappointment for me and there were one or two times I thought I would be leaving, but it didn't happen," said Burton.

"I went a long time without playing a game and then the manager picked me for the last few games and said I did well.

"He sat me down at the end of the season and said we would wipe the slate clean.

"He told me to prove that I am good enough to be his left back, so that's what I intend to do.

"I've got no regrets about joining Harriers and my girlfriend has moved here and likes Kidderminster. I'm happy being here, but I'd be even happier if I can start playing regularly."