Alexander is full of praise for Fir Park duo despite summer exits

GRAHAM ALEXANDER wishes he was discussing great Motherwell futures for Allan Campbell and Declan Gallagher instead of forecasting fantastic careers away from Fir Park. But he can’t possibly denounce the decisions made and is only supportive of their imminent moves. Alexander is resigned to midfield star Campbell following Aberdeen signing Gallagher through the exit door, most likely to one of many English Championship suitors. The Fir Park boss reckons that level is an ideal destination for the 22-year-old, who impressed greatly with his reaction to being denied a transfer to Millwall in mid-season. Alexander said: ‘I’ve not come across a more dedicated and motivated player than Allan in my eight years being a manager. ‘In fact, I haven’t come across a better young player in that time. He’s absolutely top notch and a brilliant lad. ‘The figures offered by Millwall were considerably more than what we paid him. But we had a great conversation about why I needed him at Motherwell until the summer. ‘Our job would have been a lot harder without him. And I assured him it wasn’t January or bust for his ambitions. ‘I watched him closely for the week after the window shut. We’re humans, after all. Things can affect us and I’d only known him three weeks. ‘Yet I never saw him deviate from 100-per-cent commitment. All he did was dedicate his best to Motherwell. ‘He’s definitely going to play for Scotland. He’s just pure footballer. I actually said to him the other day: “I’d have loved to have played next to you”.’ Famously a late developer himself, Alexander believes Gallagher’s best years are still ahead of him after the Scotland defender, 30, penned a Pittodrie pre-contract. Alexander noted: ‘Declan feels like he hasn’t got time to lose or waste, something I understand from being in a similar position when I played. ‘He’s just turned 30 so wants to max out, cram as much in as he can. He’s conscious he might have missed opportunities in the past, for various reasons. ‘He wants to take advantage of a great position and has to make the best living for his family. I appreciate that. I see him improving in his thirties as a defender if he looks after his body. ‘Players need tested all the time. Playing Scotland internationals has tested him and he’s stood up to those tests. ‘There’s no doubt he’s able to play for Aberdeen. He’s a really talented centre-half.’