Motherwell

Motherwell are confident of landing Regan Charles-Cook, with the former Ross County winger a free agent after leaving Belgian club Eupen. (Daily Record), external

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Motherwell manager Jens Berthel Askou says the club are "moving in on" another addition after signing striker Callum Hendry this week.

The former St Johnstone, Aberdeen, and Kilmarnock forward could make his debut on Saturday against Hearts in the Premiership, with Askou saying he looks "sharp" in training after his move from MK Dons.

Motherwell have been linked with a move, external for former Ross County winger Regan Charles-Cook, who is a free agent after leaving Belgian side Eupen.

"We're not done in the window yet, which means that when we reach the end of August, we will see a squad that's even more competitive," Askou said.

"There is [something in the pipeline]. When we can make it official, it's up to how fast we can finalise the last bit. But we are moving in on things. It takes a bit of time with all the paperwork."

On Hendry, Askou said: "He's looking good, he's looking sharp.

"Obviously he hasn't played any competitive league games yet, so the last bit of match fitness will come as soon as he starts to play.

"He's a very good player and we're really, really pleased to get him to Motherwell. He's shown his abilities, both in England and up here, and he knows a few of the players, he's played with them before, so he's very quickly integrated in the squad.

"We just look forward to him being part of what we do and contributing, and adding even more competition and quality to the squad, which we obviously need."

Askou's side visit Tynecastle on Saturday knowing a win would make it eight games unbeaten to start the campaign under the new boss.

"The confidence is growing," he said.

"I still think there's a lot more to come in terms of effectiveness, because all the underlying data, when we pull that out of the different data companies and suppliers, most of it is top two, top three in the league, except for the last bit of effectiveness in front of goal.

"There are many things to be pleased about and optimistic about going forward, but we keep pushing and keep doing what we're doing well and keep adding layers to the game, because we are facing a very, very good opponent at the weekend."

Jane Lewis
BBC Sport Scotland Senior Reporter

Four days on from bidding farewell to Lennon Miller, Motherwell finished their League Cup win against St Johnstone with three academy players on the pitch.

Ewan Wilson, 20, is no stranger to first-team action, having featured significantly last season, while 19-year-old Luca Ross made his fourth appearance from the bench this season.

There was also a debut for Zander McAllister, coming on in the 117th minute, but even that short outing left him "absolutely buzzing," as he told club media on his way off the pitch.

Manager Jens Berthel Askou liked what he saw of McAllister's "very positive" stint and emphasised the importance of giving young players exposure so they know what's expected of them.

Having been capped by Scotland at under-16 and under-17 level, the Motherwell boss and fans alike will be watching McAllister's development with interest. Whether he gets another bite at the cherry this weekend remains to be seen.

Motherwell face Hearts with a spring in their step after reaching the League Cup quarter-finals.

They are unbeaten in their seven competitive matches so far this season, keeping four clean sheets.

All that without the now-Udinese midfielder Miller - maybe life post-Lennon doesn't look so bad!

Tyrone Smith
BBC Sport Scotland Senior Reporter

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Motherwell midfielder Lukas Fadinger says the players are "all really excited" about the football philosophy manager Jens Berthel Askou is trying to instil at Fir Park.

The Austrian scored an extra-time winner as the Steelmen booked their place in the League Cup quarter-finals with a hard earned, but deserved, 1-0 win at St Johnstone.

"It was [a tight angle] at first I thought it was offside but I am just happy that it went in, we are so happy to go to the quarter finals," Fadinger said.

Motherwell largely dominated things at McDiarmid Park, serving up a slick style of play.

However a lack of cutting edge looked like it could cost them before the midfielder's dramatic late winner.

The 24-year-old added: "Of course we weren't that sharp in the final third but it will come for sure. We are trying to do our best, we give our best in every training session and try to improve and I am 100 per cent sure it will come.

"We are all really excited, we try to play football and I think not many teams try it in this league and yes I am just happy that we tried to play and give our best and it will come with time.

"We weren't that sharp but I think we can play the final passes and we have players who can play this and I am looking forward to the next games."

We asked for your views on Motherwell's 1-0 win against St Johnstone which set up a Premier Sports Cup quarter-final at Aberdeen.

Here's what some of you said:

Stuart: The team worked really hard with good football and deserved the win. We still need to find that cutting edge.

Norrie: Last time I went to Aberdeen I watched Stevie Kirk score then we went on to win the Scottish Cup so you never know. Unfortunately goals are hard to come by so a good result in the end - 300 minutes of football and two goals. We know what needs to be worked on, hit the target and stop hitting the opposition goalkeeper. Hard tie next round but you never know.

Robert: Not good enough. The new style is really pleasing on the eye but we have no end product. If we had a Kevin van Veen or Theo Bair in our squad, and playing this way, I'd be betting on us to win the league! In my defence, I've had a long drive down the road from Perth.

Lukas Fadinger was the hero with an extra-time winner against St Johnstone as Motherwell edged into the quarter-finals of the Premier Sports Cup.

The Austrian midfielder netted from a tight angle in the 108th minute to secure a hard-earned but deserved victory for the top-flight visitors.

Give us your thoughts on Motherwell's win.

Read the full match report.

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Motherwell manager Jens Berthel Askou tells BBC Scotland it was important his side were pushed all the way by St Johnstone.

"You need to score more goals than the opposition to earn the win, and we did that at the end.

"One of the last messages I gave the players before we went out is that we don't expect goals to come easy, sometimes you have to work really hard, sometimes you have to miss lot of chances or opportunities or crosses us to get there and it's about never giving up and keeping the focus and the patience and I think we were excellent at that.

"And then obviously it's, I think, a big credit to St Johnstone, I think they played a very good game, made it really, really difficult for us to win.

"We had to use every calorie in the body to get there, which is exactly what some of our players need, because we haven't dared to push them that far over the limit in the pre-season, because we've had a thin squad with many games, midweek games as well, so we'd have to get them through and able to train and perform again three days later.

"So it's excellent we got a game like this where we were pushed to the limit, and I think the boys did fantastic."

Motherwell are considering an approach to bring 18-year-old midfielder Bailey Rice back to the club from Scottish Premiership rivals Rangers. (Daily Record), external

Read Saturday's Scottish gossip

Tyrone Smith
BBC Sport Scotland Senior Reporter

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St Johnstone manager Simo Valakari says he has been "very impressed" by Motherwell under new boss Jens Berthel Askou before the sides meet in the last 16 of the League Cup on Saturday.

Askou's team went unbeaten as they topped their Premier Sports Cup group before opening their Premiership campaign with two draws – at home to Rangers then away at St Mirren.

Valakari said: "I saw them last weekend playing St Mirren away. There are not many more difficult places to play than St Mirren and Motherwell controlled 60 minutes, passing, playing around the opponent and creating chances. I was very impressed.

"It tells me Motherwell are a very well-coached team.

"They had over 600 passes against one of the hardest teams in the Premiership and people say we pass a lot - we had about 400 passes against Ross County or Partick Thistle."

Following their relegation to the Championship, St Johnstone have been in impressive form with six wins from six games.

"I don't know if Motherwell will rotate but for us, as always, it is a test to see where we are and then I know what we are now and how we will improve in the future," Valakari said.

Jenna Thomson
Fan writer

Lennon Miller's transfer fee - reported to be £.475m - can be absolutely transformational for Motherwell.

If it was up to me, I would be on the hunt for a £1m striker since we badly need a proven goalscorer.

I'd put another £1m into the Well Society and the same amount could be shared between the girls' and boys' academy.

As sad as it is to see our golden boy depart, I feel so much pride and joy for him as the world is his oyster now.

If the midfielder dazzles in Serie A the way he has in Scotland and continues to play for the national team, in the coming years he could even emulate Scott McTominay and be a Ballon d'Or nominee...

Miller, Motherwell loves you and if you're ever feeling homesick, those Fir Park doors will always be open for you.

Image source, AFP via Getty Images

Motherwell have signed "highly talented" 20-year-old Nottingham Forest forward Esapa Osong on loan for the season.

Osong had loan spells at Rotherham and Cambridge United last season, making three starts in 12 appearances and scoring one goal.

He has featured once for Forest - in an EFL Cup tie two years ago - and has netted 11 times for the Premier League club's Under-21s.

"Esapa is a young and highly talented forward that [recruitment chief] Nick Daws has been tracking for some time," said Motherwell boss Jens Berthel Askou.

"Powerful and athletic, he has consistently impressed at academy level with his productivity and eye-catching performances.

"With his combination of speed, strength and technical ability, Esapa has the potential to be a real challenge for any defender in the league."

Osong described his Fir Park move as an "incredible opportunity" and added: "The manager has outlined his expectations - now it's my responsibility to deliver."

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Lee Miller believes the "sky is the limit" for son Lennon after the midfielder completed his move from Motherwell to Udinese.

"Yeah, it's been a bit of a whirlwind, a bit of a rollercoaster ride. But delighted to get the deal done," Miller told BBC Scotland.

"We're gutted he's leaving us, but bursting with pride at the same time as is our entire family. It's an amazing opportunity for him.

"It's been a carefully thought-out process over the last six, seven, eight months.

"Udinese has always been there, chomping at the bit to do things properly, and they've done that. It's been a huge decision for Lennon to make, and us as well, because we're quite a close family.

"But ultimately it's been great, exciting times, and I look forward to the future."

Several clubs were chasing the 18-year-old Scotland international, but Miller decided the best option for his development was to follow in the footsteps of international team-mates such as Scott McTominay, Billy Gilmour and Aaron Hickey by taking his talents to Serie A.

His father added added: "He feels he's got an opportunity to play there, it's in a world-class league in Serie A, he wants to show everybody what he can do over there, against some quality sides.

"They've got a track record for developing players and moving them on for bigger money again, so this is a carefully thought out step.

"Lennon's done fantastic so far. He is a level-headed kid, I say kid, he's a man, and he's very mature beyond his years, but he has massive ambitions. The sky's the limit."

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Manager Jens Berthel Askou stressed Motherwell's record transfer fee would be used for the long-term benefit of the club.

The Lanarkshire side sold Lennon Miller to Udinese for a fee that "substantially surpasses" the previous record of £3.25m, which Celtic paid for David Turnbull.

The income has the potential to rise further with clauses relating to the 18-year-old's progress and a potential sell-on fee.

Askou is still looking to strengthen his squad, but Motherwell will use their windfall with the sustainability of the club in mind.

"We still have a few things to do," the Danish manager said on transfers.

"I'm not going to name specific positions, but we're doing our best and I think things are moving in the right direction.

"We are still working within our framework and our budget and driving this club forward sustainably.

"When you make a big deal like we've done now, obviously it's not going to be splashed all over.

"It's going to benefit Motherwell FC, obviously a little bit short term, but in general in the long term, so we'll be able to produce the next Lennon Miller in the future and we'll be able to be even more competitive as a club and keep progressing.

"We're not going to risk the club and the balance within the club and the structure, because we've been in the Premiership for many, many years and we want to keep doing that.

"But obviously we've taken some steps into modernising the club within the framework we have and we're not going to risk that by overspending and just taking quick decisions.

"We're doing things with the right speed and tempo, so we also have a good and healthy club in months and years and decades to come."

Claire Thomson
BBC Sport Scotland

Image source, SNS

Motherwell manager Jens Berthel Askou has been speaking to the media as his side prepare to face St Johnstone in the League Cup this weekend.

Here are the main points:

• Askou believes Lennon Miller's move to Udinese is a fantastic deal for the club and will benefit Motherwell in the future. He described the midfielder as a "very intelligent, composed and relaxed" player, who will have a bright future and do well in Serie A.

• He adds: "Lennon has been part of the club for so long and it is a fantastic story for everyone. We are very proud of him. He is a special and rare talent in Scottish football."

• Askou describes Udinese as "stable" with not many negative headlines and strengths in talent development. He says several Danish players have moved to Serie A in recent years and done well.

• He insists Motherwell still have work to do in the transfer window, but will "work within the framework and budget to drive the club sustainably". He says he does not want to risk the balance and structure in the club by overspending and making quick decisions.

• Miller's move for a reported fee of £4.75m makes him the club's record sale and Askou hopes the fee will "give stability and opportunities to think about long-term investments" as well as "more confidence and certainty for a healthy club".

• Askou says it would be impossible to replace Miller, but it leaves the pathway open for the next talent and academy players.

• He is pleased with Tawanda Maswanhise's progress and effort, and believes the forward's contract extension is positive for the club.

• He expects St Johnstone will be a difficult challenge: "If we're not at our best, they will hurt us."

• On Andy Halliday making comments on opposition teams, including weaknesses in Rangers, Askou insists he has no issue with it and is confident the 33-year-old knows how to balance being a Motherwell player with media work.

Image source, SNS

Motherwell forward Tawanda Maswanhise has signed a one-year contract extension after impressing manager Jens Berthel Askou with his "speed and aggressiveness".

The 22-year-old Zimbabwe international has scored 10 goals - including four in this season's League Cup group stage - in 40 appearances since joining the Steelmen last summer.

Maswanhise is now tied down under summer 2027, with Motherwell holding an option of a further year.

"Tawanda has made huge strides in his development," manager Jens Berthel Askou said.

"His speed and aggressiveness pose a constant threat to any defence in the league, both in and out of possession, and his start to this season has been nothing short of impressive.

"He has shown a strong desire to improve and an excellent ability to use his strengths for the benefit of the team."

Maswanhise says it was a "straightforward choice" to extend his stay, adding: "I will keep working hard and giving my all for this football club."

We asked for your views on what Motherwell should do with the club record transfer fee banked from Lennon Miller's move to Udinese.

Here's what some of you said:

Gary: We need at least three players so funds should be made available, but we also need to invest in training facilities and the Phil O'Donnell stand which ideally would be demolished and rebuilt if possible.

Derek: Part of it definitely needs to improve the squad, but the majority needs to go towards various stadium improvements, particularly in the Phil O'Donnell stand which requires a lot of work and the continued upgrade to the current training facility which we have already been investing in so far.

Jamie: We need to mix it, we're in need of a proper training ground, but also in need to bolster the squad for this season and seasons to come. New signings and contracts come first for me, then what we have left we can provide for facilities.

Camy: Hopefully modernisation of Fir Park is high up on the board's agenda. We saw Aberdeen install a screen. Hopefully things along those lines. Hopefully the manager can get a chunk of that as well to fund the stuff on the park. We are not far away.

Mark: We need at least three signings. Reinforce the central defence. Attempt to replace Lennon's creativity in the midfield and an out-and-out striker. Lennon was fantastic but with the funds we can seriously challenge for top six with smart signings.

Ross: Motherwell should invest some of the money into the repair and upgrade of seating in the Phil O'Donnell main stand. The place is looking quite tired and dated.

Glyn: I believe a large portion of it should be set aside to construct a purpose-built training facility, and the remainder used to bolster the current squad.

Motherwell held their nerve on the Lennon Miller departure. It would have been easy to be bullied and jump into the first offer that came along, but they were adamant they had a valuation.

They weren't just going to sell on the cheap and they got the just reward with Miller's club record sale to Udinese. It shows there's a real positivity in Scottish football that when you've got a good, young, talented footballer, hold on to them as best you can.

It also shows if you give them the pathway and allow them to progress into your first team they can make you money. All round it's a good deal for the club.

It's an excellent deal for Lennon. He gets a chance to go and experience something new and Motherwell now have a big pot of money and the question is what do they do next?

They won't be getting that in a lump sum, it will be drip fed in over a period of time. It's always nice to know you've got money coming in every season as you progress and I'm sure there'll be targets that Lennon can meet to make Motherwell even more money.

They have be wary they don't waste it. That was the one observation I had after the club got the money from David Turnbull's move to Celtic. I almost felt it was just frittered away and wasn't really invested in anything.

They'll be clearly aware of agents and players contacting the club wanting to move to Motherwell now because they've got some money in the bank. They'll want excess wages so they've got to be wary of that.

There's potential to improve the infrastructure at the training ground, then look at the investment into the youth academy. Ultimately that's where Miller has come from and where the likes of Turnbull and James McFadden came from over the years, so invest in there.

The players are there, you just have to find them. There's money there, there's talent there, you just have to nurture it.

Stephen Craigan was speaking to BBC Sport Scotland's Andy Burke

Lennon Miller has left - so what now for Motherwell?

The Scotland midfielder's exit to Udinese has given the club their biggest sale - a reported £4.75m - so how should the money be best utilised?

Will it safeguard the club's future? Should it fund a training ground? And what about improving the squad?

Let us know your thoughts.

Udinese paid Motherwell £4.7m, plus add-ons, for 18-year-old Scotland midfielder Lennon Miller and have also inserted a sell-on clause in the move, with the fee setting a new record - surpassing the £3.25m Well secured from Celtic for David Turnbull in 2020. (Anthony Joseph on X), external

Read Wednesday's Scottish gossip

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Lennon Miller says Motherwell "has a big place in my heart" as the 18-year-old issued a farewell message of gratitude to the club and supporters.

Midfielder Miller's move to Udinese for a reported fee of £4.75m makes him the club's record sale, eclipsing David Turnbull's switch to Celtic five years ago.

"Motherwell is all I've ever known," Miller told the Fir Park club's website.

"It's been my home since I was a young boy and I've achieved my dream of playing in the first team, playing in the big stadiums and wearing the armband.

"My thanks goes to all the supporters for taking me in. The support up and down the country every week has been exceptional. For all the coaches I've worked under and who have helped me improve as a player and as a man, thank you. I simply wouldn't be here without their guidance and support.

"To all the players who I've played alongside with, and for all the kind words they've said about me, thank you. My team-mates have helped me through everything and allowed me to play with freedom.

"I want to also express my appreciation to all the staff behind the scenes at the club. Some are still there, some have moved on, but they all work so hard to keep the place going. You may not see first-hand the hard work and sacrifices they make, but having been in the building all these years, I can't thank them enough for everything they do.

"This is a new chapter in my life, and I move on filled with excitement. I may not be at Fir Park to cheer on the boys, but I'll be watching and following from afar. The club has a big place in my heart and I will always be grateful. I wish all the lads the best for the rest of the season.

"Mon the Well."

Image source, SNS

We asked for your views on Lennon Miller, who has now completed his move to Udinese to earn Motherwell a club record fee.

Here's what some of you said:

Stuart: I am delighted to see Lennon spread his wings and move abroad. Italy has proven to be a positive place for several Scots. Also delighted he's not moved to either Old Firm.

Colin: Fantastic move for Miller. Playing in Serie A can only benefit his progression as I believe he will still play a lot of first-team football. He's a massive talent and with the right move at this stage in his career it can only benefit him and the Scotland national team. Wish him every success.

KP: Although sorry to see Lennon go I wish him all the best. He has been a real asset to the club. He is an outstanding player with an instinctive talent for football and it has been a joy to watch him play. Hopefully, he will continue to blossom at his new club and the Scotland squad. Good luck!

Gary: It's a great move for the lad, he follows great Scottish talent heading out to play in Serie A and will grow as a player. Glad the saga is over from a Motherwell perspective, we can now look to invest the funds back into giving Jens Berthel Askou attacking options. Top six is back on!

Ross: Miller is a fantastic talent and will go far in the game if he keeps his head down and concentrates on his football. It's also clear to me that he has a supportive family behind him with experience that will help him. I'm happy for him to make a move up the ladder so long as his value is met and the club benefits financially.

Ricky: Miller has been a godsend to Motherwell and we will miss his presence around Fir Park. He's been class since the moment he played and was amazing with my children as well, always happy for photos and autographs and the fame never bothered him, he just wanted to play football. So gutted he is going but great to see him progress in his career. Thank you Lennon.