Kidderminster manager Mark Yates has tipped left-back Lee Baker to be an integral part of his new-look team for next season.

The 20-year-old is one of the fortunate few to escape the cut as the club tighten their belts this summer, with one year left on the deal he signed as a free agent in January after a successful loan period from Albion.

Baker currently stands with Darryl Knights and Russell Penn as the only three players under contract at Aggborough for next season.

But the left side of defence is one area the manager is confident he won’t have to worry about, with his first-choice settled into the role after 40 appearances last season.

Yates expects even better things of his unearthed gem next season.

He said: “Lee is going to play a big part for us next season. I have spoken to him a number of times since the end of last season, he is looking forward to it and can’t wait for us to bring in some players.

“He came on leaps and bounds as a young player, but he’s a very good professional and knows what he’s doing.

“I think Lee Baker will be even better for us next season.”