Adam Murray to leave Kidderminster Harriers following an approach from an EFL club

Kidderminster Harriers have confirmed manager Adam Murray is set to leave the club after an unnamed EFL side triggered a release clause in his contract.

The shocking announcement comes just days after the 44-year-old guided Harriers to the National League, with chairman Richard Lane admitting the timing will disappoint supporters following the club’s successful end to the season.

Kidderminster ran out 2-0 victors at South Shields on Saturday in the National League North Promotion Final, ending a two-year hiatus from the top tier of Non-League football.

However, just moments after a triumphant promotion, the former Mansfield Town, Boston United, AFC Fylde and Eastbourne Borough manager is now set to depart for an opportunity elsewhere.

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Too good to turn down

A club statement said: “Kidderminster Harriers can reluctantly confirm that Adam Murray is to leave his position as Manager following an approach from another club.

“Shortly after the weekend’s final, a club presently in the EFL met a release clause within Adam’s contract to discuss their vacancy, which Adam has expressed a desire to pursue.

“We understand the timing of this announcement will come as a disappointment to fans following Saturday’s promotion.

Lane added: “Adam has been very open and honest with me since the weekend.

“While he was a year into a two-year contract and a project with us here, I fully respect that, given the overall financial package on offer, he feels it is an opportunity for him and his family that he cannot turn down.

“While the timing is unfortunate following such a fantastic end to the season, I am sure we all wish Adam nothing but the best for his future.

“At this time and always, our priority is on our fantastic club and its fans; our focus now is on moving quickly with a managerial appointment that will lead us into a new chapter in our history after promotion.”

Move forward

After capping off a magnificent first season at Aggborough, Murray said: “Over the last six months we have been unstoppable.

“We’ve been on some really big runs, and we’ve finished it off eight unbeaten.

“It’s massive for the club who suffered final day heartache last season, but this was a remarkable way to end this season – the best way to do it.”

Yet within days of delivering promotion and speaking proudly about the club’s resurgence, Murray is now set to move on.

Lane sought to reassure Harriers supporters that the club would move forward positively despite his departure: “Collectively, we have achieved something amazing this season and I want those memories to stay fresh in the minds of our supporters and sponsors, who backed us so incredibly, particularly in those final months of the season.

“We have every cause to celebrate, and we will move forward with nothing but positivity and excitement for our next challenge.”

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