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Skipper Ryan Croasdale leaves Kidderminster Harriers in £50,000 deal

Kidderminster Harriers have been dealt a blow after losing captain Ryan Croasdale to AFC Fylde in a £50,000 deal.

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The 23-year-old midfielder has signed a three-year contract with the National League Premier outfit, with Harriers admitting they had "reluctantly" accepted a transfer request.

Croasdale made 91 appearances in National League North during the past two seasons.

Harriers chairman Colin Gordon said: “This was not something we had planned for and had expected Ryan to again lead us next season.

"But, ultimately, as a young man with a young family, we have a duty to support him in his wishes, and this is something he has specifically requested.

“While the manager (Neil MacFarlane) fully understands Ryan’s reasoning, he’s equally adamant that anyone who doesn’t want to be here is welcome to move on.

"His focus is solely on working with the squad we’re putting together for next season.”

Croasdale's exit continues a summer of significant change at Aggborough, which has also seen manager John Eustace and assistant Matt Gardiner leave for coaching roles at QPR, with MacFarlane taking over in the hotseat.

The deal which saw Croasdale join Fylde is thought to include several add-ons and a significant sell-on clause.

Gordon continued: “While I understand supporters will be disappointed to see Ryan leave us, they can be assured that our record for recruiting and developing new talent is second to none.

"We’re working hard to make sure that what is already an exciting squad for next season is strengthened even further.”