O’Donnell close to new deal
Stephen O’Donnell says he’s close to agreeing a new two-year deal at Motherwell, and was surprised he didn’t get it done before heading off on international duty with Scotland.
O’Donnell, who became a dad for the second time onThursday with daughter Olivia, says he’s relaxed about agreeing a new deal and trusts the club to get it done.
The defender enjoyed his time away with Scotland at theWorld Cup qualifiers, and returned to the team for the 5-0 win over Formartine United in the Scottish Cup third round on Saturday.
He said:“I’m very close. I actually thought it might have been done before the last trip there.
“There’s never been a rush at my end and there’s never been a rush at Motherwell’s end either.We are pretty relaxed.
“I’ve always been honest with the club and they’ve been honest with me so there’s no issues.
“I’m just enjoying my football, enjoying playing for the manager and getting wins.
“It might be this week [when we agree a deal] but there’s no stress.The contract is for a couple of years.
“I’m getting a bit older and I am happy to stay in what I think are good conditions.”
O’Donnell enjoyed his time away with the national team, and reckons Scotland are still in with a chance to qualify for the QatarWorld Cup.
He said:“Every international game is tough and to be sitting second in the group after the first few games means we are still in it.There have been times before when that’s not been the case.“
O’Donnell said it’s time for him to get stuck in to family life as well, with an 18-month-old son and newborn daughter to contend with, and said:“It’s more important I go home and change some nappies.
“I’m happy and I am enjoying myself and the Scotland form maybe showed that.
“It’s exciting times.That will be me though, two and out.
“The birth of my wee girl onThursday was brilliant.
“My missus is still in hospital and I was able to get up here a little bit later and pop in to see her.
“Family is very important.
“Winning, playing and family are the most important things in my life.”