When Motherwell embarked on a Highland jaunt in July 1998 there were shouts of "Who are you?" from the few who had travelled from Lanarkshire to see the pre-season games at Nairn and Forres.
Reports suggest that from the previous season around 17 were not present when the summer break finished including several well kent faces. Arnott, Philiben, Martin, and Coyne were included in the list that also contained Falconer, McSkimming, Garcin, Lindqvist, Hendry.
The 1997/8 campaign had seen us finish in a disappointing 9th (in the 10 team SPL) with Kampman in charge following the departure of McLeish to Hibs. The manager decided that new faces were needed and set about his task with gusto. John Chapman decided to put the club up for sale.
A feature from Softy's testimonial programme July 1998
The new look Motherwell was bursting with new faces. Mikko Kaven, Jamie McGowan, Holm Kraska, Brian McLair, Jan Michels, Rob Mattaei, Jered Stirling, Greig Miller, David White and Stephen Halliday joined those who escaped the cull. Shaun Teale was to join them at the start of August to be followed by Kai Nyssonen.
The team struggled, John Boyle bought the club and by October Kampman's short spell in charge was over. The Pat Nevin and Billy Davies were given the task of making Motherwell the Third Force in Scottish football.
There are a few parallels to link current events with what transpired 17 years ago. A new manager, a new owner, a struggling team and a host of new players all echo the story told above. And no doubt there will be a few questions about the identity of some who appear in claret and amber in Dingwall on Saturday. Let's hope for a better outcome this time around!
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