Four-star scouting policy pays off for ’Well

Motherwell have started pre-season rebuilding after snapping up four players in a week.

Defenders Ben Heneghan and Richard Tait and striker Jacob Blyth all put pen to paper on lengthy deals on Thursday.

Goalkeeper Dean Brill signed a one-year deal on Monday, having left Inverness Caledonian Thistle, and will battle with Craig Samson for the first-team jersey.

And on Wednesday experienced defender Stevie Hammell signed a two-year contract extension.

Midfielder James Mcfadden is at the club for rehabilitation, and it’s hoped he will also agree a deal to stay.

Central defender Heneghan (22) signed a two-year deal after leaving National League side Chester, right-back Tait (26) sealed a three-year deal after leaving Grimsby Town, and 23-year-old Blyth is on a two-year contract since his move from Leicester, with a third year option.

Boss Mark Mcghee said:“we are delighted to have secured all three lads as, in each situation, we had to battle hard against clubs on both sides of the border.

“All three have been identified via our scouting network, headed up by Martin Foyle, and we’ve really done our homework.”

Striker Blyth said Scottish football is becoming more attractive, and said that was a major pull for him.

He said:“with the likes of Joey Barton coming here that’s always going to be good for the game.

“I’m a new signing here so I’m going to be fighting for my place week in, week out, and that starts on the training field.

“You have to work as hard as you can to get yourself into the team, which is hopefully what I’ll do and I’ll score some goals for Motherwell.”

Heneghan admits he was aware of interest from some major English Championship clubs, but knew Motherwell had put in a concrete offer for his services.

He said:“i’m very happy to finally get it sorted.

“It has been a bit stressful waiting around, but I’m happy to be here now.

“I heard a few rumours in January that things were sparking up, but obviously at the time I was still under contract, so it was a case of keeping my head down and concentrating on football.

“Once the summer came it was more and more certain that the club was really interested.

“They put an offer my way, and I’m here now.

“There was interest from other clubs down south, but when the‘interest’ comes in it’s OK, but it doesn’t actually mean anything until an offer is put your way.

“I want to go somewhere and actually play, rather than be part of the squad. I want to learn as much as I can.

“I’m not guaranteed to play here by any means, but I just feel like I have a better chance to prove myself here.”

Meanhile 30-year-old Brill said:“i’m pleased it’s all done and I’m looking forward to the season ahead.

“I’m grateful to be here and I’ll push for that number one spot.”