McDonald among the eight Well departures
MOTHERWELL have confirmed that eight players including striker Scott McDonald will leave Fir Park at the end of the month.
The former Celtic frontman notified the Steelmen that he did not intend to take up his contractual option for next term.
Craig Samson, Joe Chalmers, Lee Lucas, Craig Moore, David Ferguson and Stephen Pearson are also heading for the exit door.
Defender Zak Jules will return to parent club Reading at the end of a loan deal in which he made 10 appearances for Stephen Robinson’s side.
The club are in talks with Lionel Ainsworth, Russell Griffiths and Keith Lasley over extending their deals in addition to a further five Under-20s players.
“First of all, I want to thank everyone who will leave Fir Park for the last time as a Motherwell player,” Robinson said.
“There are a lot of lads there who have played a lot of football for this club or have came through the ranks here, and it’s important we acknowledge that.
“It is never easy when people leave, but I have sat down with every one of them to give them my thoughts, which is the least I can do.”
Elsewhere, St Mirren have completed the permanent signing of on-loan striker Cammy Smith while Gary MacKenzie has penned a contract extension.
Smith joined the Buddies from Aberdeen until the end of the season in January, scoring twice in 17 appearances as Jack Ross’ side pulled off a remarkable escape from relegation.
The 21-year-old penned a two-year deal in Paisley yesterday.