Alexander feels O’donnell re-signing would prove Motherwell ambition
Motherwell manager Graham Alexander feels re-signing Scotland international Stephen O’donnell would be a “statement of intent” that highlights their ambition.
Alexander is optimistic a player he described as the
“best right-back in Scotland” will soon sign a new deal.
The 28-year-old is already on his second Fir Park contract after joining in August, but is in advanced talks over a twoyear extension.
Alexander has already handed new deals to Bevis Mugabi and Robbie Crawford and hopes O'donnell's signature would encourage others to follow suit. Speaking ahead of today’s Premiership visit of St Mirren, Alexander said: “Bevis and Robbie have done really well for me and Stephen O'donnell is a proven international, I think the best rightback in Scotland.
“If we can just get over that line with him, which I think we are close to doing, then it’s a great addition but also shows the ambition that we have got that we have current Scotland internationals willing to commit themselves to our club.
“There are statements of intent that you can make throughout the course of the season and when and if we sign Stephen, that is certainly one.”
St Mirren are still short up front for the Fir Park clash despite being boosted by the goalscoring return of Kristian Dennis last weekend after recovering from a major Achilles tear. Collin Quaner and Eamonn Brophy remain out but Dennis came off the bench to net a glorious goal in the Scottish Cup win at Hamilton last Saturday.
The 31-year-old said: “I wasn't expecting to be involved at the weekend but I was eager to be involved and luckily I contributed. If I get a chance, I am confident I will take it.”