After the end of season party against Livingston, most people connected to Motherwell were in optimistic mood. Our SPL future had been guaranteed and while we were still in administration, there were no wolves at the door. Bryan Jackson had made it clear that our operating profit for the year coupled with our excellent Scottish Cup run meant that there would be no fire sale of our young talent – and that additions to the squad could be forthcoming.
The first rumours linked us with a move for two ex-players who were out of contract with Partick Thistle. With John Lambie retiring and the West End club only offering one year deals, Alex Burns and Steven Craigan were prime targets for Terry Butcher. Our defence clearly needed strengthened and while Craigan is not a spectacular player, he has came on a long way since he left Fir Park. Burns has previously flattered to deceive but had a breakout year, finding the net seventeen times for the Jags. Some ‘Well fans were unhappy at the lack of ambition shown in taking back old players but there is little denying that they definitely improve our squad.
Having released both Stevie Woods and Francois DuBourdeau, it was obvious that goalkeepers were on the shopping list. Gordon Marshall is coming to the end of a long career but when fit he can still do a job and Butcher clearly feels that Kilmarnock were wrong not to take a chance on him for another season. Marshall was certainly a fine ‘keeper in his day and his health will be a major concern. With that in mind, it was a little surprising when youngster Andy Reid was signed from Nottingham Forest. Some experienced cover may turn out to be desirable but for the moment Reid and Ewings will battle it out for the second goalkeeping spot.
There have been various rumours regarding Pearson going to Leicester, Hammell going to Rangers and McFadden moving everywhere. However, no solid bid has been received for any of our youngsters and long may that continue. They all have another years worth of experience and if they can perform well on a more consistent basis, they will all be crucial in keeping us away from the relegation battle.
Of course, all our plans could have been undone had Falkirk’s appeal to the SFA over promotion been successful. It is now clear that they do not meet the SPL requirements but there was always a lingering doubt that their proactive media campaign would turn out to be successful. Thankfully justice was done and the players and staff of Motherwell can return to Fir Park to prepare for a new season in the SPL.