| Date: 07-05-25 Phil Brown and the Harriers part ways |
A surprise announcement hit the Harriers fans earlier today when it was announced that the manager, Phil Browns, tenure had come to an end. It was only a few days ago that we finished the season in third place and that looks to have been the problem according to the owner Richard Lane.
Lane wanted instant results meaning instant promotion and a few weeks ago we stood on the cusp of an instant return to the National League with the club at the top of the table and the ‘easy’ task of beating struggling Southport at Haig Avenue. As we now know that didn’t happen and neither did our play-off game at home to Chester FC last Sunday.
Lane has now acted quickly: some may say too quickly, in getting rid of what could be looked at as a successful manager. In Phils time with us since January last year he has achieved a 42% win rate with 41 wins in 85 games. His best return in his management career.
With him gone, along with Neil McDonald, we now start to look for a new manager to take us back up the the division above and good luck to whoever it is. The favourites in the frame so far seem to be the former Harrier and England U20’s coach Ian Foster along with the Hereford FC manager Paul Caddis. Other names have been mentioned but dismissed as being unlikely or not all that funny.
The official statement from KHFC is below:
Kidderminster Harriers can today confirm the departure of Phil Brown and Neil McDonald from the Club with immediate effect.
Chairman Richard Lane said: “Whilst we came very close to achieving our goal, the outcome of the season ultimately proved bitterly disappointing.
“We remain firmly focused on our primary objective for the club, which is returning to the National League, we feel now is the right time to make changes before embarking our future campaign.
“I would personally like to thank both Phil and Neil for their efforts during their time with Kidderminster Harriers and we wish them nothing but the best for the future and their next challenge.”
The Chairman added: “The process of appointing a new manager is already underway and we hope to update our loyal supporters on that soon.”
The Club will be making no further public comment at this time.
Photo © KHFC