MARTIN O'Connor is in pole position to succeed close pal Stuart Watkiss after being given the Harriers manager's job on a caretaker basis.

But with the vacancy already attracting interest there is talk that O'Connor might not fancy the role on a permanent basis.

He will take charge of Saturday's tricky trip to table-topping Accrington Stanley, but has yet to commit himself to the position beyond the weekend.

Meanwhile, former Stockport and Mansfield boss Carlton Palmer wasted no time throwing his hat into the ring yesterday morning, while ex-Reading and Swindon chief Jimmy Quinn, who led Shrewsbury to promotion from the Conference, is also keen.

Harriers old boy Mark Yates sparked rumours that he was in the frame when he arrived at Aggborough yesterday, but the Burnley assistant boss was just there to collect on-loan youngster Marc Pugh, who is lodging with him at his Hartlebury home.

Other ex-Harriers sure to be considered are Graham Allner and Richard Forsyth.

Ian Atkins, Ray Graydon and Bobby Gould head the list of other unemployed managers linked with the post, while an 18-month contract could rule out a swoop for Worcester's Andy Preece.

Harriers want to make an appointment before the end of December so the new man has chance to wheel and deal in the January transfer window.