Every January brings an opportunity for mid-season tweaks to the squad and the latest departures create space in the player budget. Less than a week remains to complete any deals and every day brings hopeful glances at the official site for news of that magic signing that will transform our fortunes!
Those who have left the Motherwell dressing room in January are..
Dan Twardzik
The ‘keeper came to us first on an emergency loan from Dundee while Stuart McCall was the manager. In a six game winning run in the winter of season 2013/14 he conceded only two goals and the basis for our runner-up position in the league table was established. He was rewarded with a longer contract at the star of the following season.
Jake Taylor
The midfielder’s loan spell from Reading was intended to last until the end of the season but it was agreed that he should return south to join Exeter City - a club that he had been with for most of 2011/12. He made only 7 appearances in claret and amber but did not feature in Mark McGhee’s plans for the future.
Theo Robinson
The 27 year old striker joined us at the end of August and made 11 appearances (3 starts and 8 off the bench) but no goals came his way. His one year contract ended as he moved to Port Vale on a deal till the end of the season.
Liam Grimshaw
It came as a blow to discover that the 20 year old who had made such a contribution to our midfield was to be recalled by Manchester United then moved on to Preston. His energetic performances led to a fine partnership with Lasley and Pearson and the manager had hoped that we could extend his loan spell further. Still, young Cadden grabbed his chance to impress in that slot and we may find that our local talent can grow into the vacant slot.
David Clarkson
There was a nostalgic delight in the Fir Park community when Clarkson returned in June but the productive partnership of McDonald and Moult has restricted the 30 year old’s chances and his move on loan to St Mirren until the end of the season should benefit both parties.
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