WE MUST GET FRESH FACES

Published date10 August 2022
Publication titleWishaw Press
And the Scotland international reckons bringing in reinforcements at Fir Park is more important than rushing into appointing a successor

The right-back made his first start for the Steelmen this season during Saturday's 2-1 defeat to St Johnstone, with caretaker boss Steven Hammell giving him the nod after a tough summer.

Wishaw native O'Donnell has barely had a look in of late and was stripped of the captaincy at the start of the season.

He saw the armband handed to goalkeeper Liam Kelly amid a disagreement with Alexander, who was sacked by the Steelmen in the aftermath of the club's embarrassing Europa Conference League exit to Sligo Rovers last month.

The 30-year-old is now hoping for a clean slate under the next gaffer, whether that be Hammell or someone else.

However, he believes the most crucial element for Motherwell succeeding is strengthening the squad, which would get a frustrated fan base back on side having become tired of Alexander's tactics during a run of five wins in 23 games before his exit.

O'Donnell, who has won 26 caps for his country, said: "I think reinforcements are more important than the manager.

"What we have worked on last week with Stevie, I think there's been a lot of positives.

"The manager isn't essential, it would be nice as you want clarity.

"I think the manager right now is doing a good job and there's no immediate rush.

"If the board want to get someone in soon, then great. I think Stevie would like it fulltime. But recruitment is probably more important right now.

"You can sign good players if you have a style of play.

"I think the fans weren't happy with the previous style and if you want to change that then you need to bring in players who fit a profile to change the style.

"We all want to get our heads down, work hard, training is good and everyone is enjoying it and we want to put in...

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