Our opponents have already experienced competitive action in the Europa League with a losing encounter with Astra of Romania. They face the difficult task of attempting to match the achievements of last season when they earned a Scottish Cup win and a third place in the league. John Hughes will be keen to make a positive start on home turf.
The close season saw the departure of a number of familiar faces from the Caledonian Stadium. Following the transfer of Billy McKay in January, the loss of Graeme Shinnie and Marley Watkins will weaken Hughes' team. Among the replacements Lopez (formerly of Atletico Madrid and Getafe) seems the most notable and the striker will be eager to start his account. The perennial Richie Foran seems to be injury free.
Motherwell's build-up has seen a steady improvement as new players gained familiarity with their colleagues and adapt to the manager's style. Despite the recent loss to Preston North End, there was a realisation that we may have a team that should avoid the nerve shattering experience of the play-off (or worse).
Boosted by the return of Scott McDonald and with the mature spine of McManus, Lasley and Pearson, Baraclough has boosted our attacking options with the addition of Moult, Fletcher and Clarkson while retaining Johnson and Ainsworth on the flanks.
Chalmers, Laing and Kennedy are available in the back line and with Hammell back after a horrible 2014/15 the manager has a decent squad available.
As for Saturday's selection? A decent guide is the starting eleven for the final pre-season game: Twardzik, Hammell, Laing, McManus, Pearson, Fletcher, Johnson, Lasley, Chalmers, Law and McDonald.
With any luck we can start the campaign with a win, 1-0 to the Mighty 'Well.
Have you entered the Prediction League yet?