Motherwell

Motherwell's New Zealand midfielder Elijah Just, 26, will evaluate his future after the World Cup. (Record - subscription required), external

Saturday's Scottish gossip

Charlotte Cohen
BBC Sport Scotland

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Jens Berthel Askou captured the hearts of Motherwell supporters during a whirlwind 11-month tenure.

The Dane has departed for Toulouse after implementing a slick and eye-catching possession-based style that swept the Steelmen to a fourth-place Scottish Premiership finish and European football for the first time in four years.

Motherwell finished the season on 61 points - their fourth-highest tally since three points for a win was introduced in 1994.

To get there, they scored 59 goals (the fourth most in the division) and conceded 36 - the second fewest in the Premiership and also the least Motherwell have shipped in a top-flight season since 1932.

Their 18 clean sheets was the most of any side in the league while their nine defeats were the fewest by a Motherwell team in a top-flight season since 1959.

And goalkeeper Calum Ward set a new club record of 20 clean sheets across all competitions.

Askou's side scored seven league goals from fast breaks, the joint most in the division, and had the third-highest possession with 57.97%. Their expected goals (xG) was the fourth highest (56.09) while their expected goals against was the fifth lowest (47.17).

Askou leaves with a win ratio of 46.8% and a points per game of 1.61 with an average goals scored per game of 1.51.

David Currie
BBC Sport Scotland Senior Reporter

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Motherwell goalkeeper Aston Oxborough says winning the Scottish Cup with Dunfermline this weekend would be "the stuff dreams are made of".

It would also be the perfect pick me up after the disappointment of missing out on playing in the Premiership play-off semi-final.

The 27-year-old saved a penalty in the closing minutes of the quarter-final against Arbroath but was recalled by Motherwell as emergency cover on the eve of the second leg of the play-off semi-final against Partick Thistle.

The Jags won the second leg 2-1 to claim a place in the final against St Mirren.

"It wasn't ideal to say the least," the Englishman said.

"It's difficult to watch when you're not playing, regardless of the circumstances. Sometimes it can be harder to watch than playing in it. It was disappointing how it panned out but I can't control it, so I just had to get on with it really."

Oxborough joined the Championship side in late February, helping them to a fourth-place finish and played a vital role in the play-off quarter final win over Arbroath, saving a late penalty at Gayfield in the second leg as Neil Lennon's team came away with a 1-0 aggregate win.

He also saved a spot-kick in the Scottish Cup semi-final as Dunfermline beat Falkirk 4-2 on penalties after a 0-0 draw.

"Obviously there's a bit of evidence to say I can save a few penalties now, which is nice," Oxborough added.

"It's always difficult to save them, but my goalie coach is good."

If Dunfermline overcome Celtic on Saturday they'll join Oxborough's employers Motherwell in European competition.

"I'm really pleased for Motherwell," he said.

"They've had a brilliant season, everyone knows that. If we can get there as well, it will be unbelievable for us."

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Midfielder Andy Halliday expects Motherwell to already have "three or four names in the frame" to replace manager Jens Berthel Askou following his move to Ligue 1 Toulouse.

Halliday, who called time on his playing career following the conclusion of the current campaign, is sad to see the 43-year-old leave Fir Park after a stunning season.

"It's the same case as if you were a player and if you have the type of season he had," he told BBC Scotland.

"He completely transformed Motherwell on the pitch, did it in a style that's raised a lot of eyebrows and got a lot of people watching Motherwell this season.

"Really disappointed for Motherwell, from a selfish point of view disappointed we're losing somebody like that from Scottish football. I'm hoping Motherwell will go with a similar approach and hopefully we'll find the second version."

And Halliday suggested it may not be long before a replacement is in place.

"I think there's going to be a contingency plan in place," he added.

"It wouldn't surprise me whatsoever if they've got three or four names in the frame, it also wouldn't surprise me if they involved Askou in those chats."

Motherwell fans, we asked for your views after manager Jens Berthel Askou's move to French Ligue 1 side Toulouse was confirmed.

Here's what some of you said.

David: Post Jens, I actually fear the worst. He was a revelation unlike anything I'd ever witnessed at Fir Park. Is there a Jens II out there? I very much doubt it and can only see the return of mediocrity next season. I do hope I'm proved wrong, but my teeth are too long to think otherwise.

Robert: You will have to allow Well fans a period of mourning before we can even think about a replacement for JBA who brought some of THE most enjoyable and clever football that a club our size can only have dreamt of. Good luck JBA, you leave us all the better for knowing you.

James: Gutted, but not totally surprised. Jens and some of our top performers were always going to be scouted by other clubs. I just hope if our players leave then we get the proper money they are worth. Also, hope that they don't go to Scottish clubs and either haunt us or get their careers ruined.

Ian: I would have loved to see him stay but I think it was inevitable for his development that a big club would come in for him. On the plus side, he is not going to Celtic and also he will not have to suffer from the total shambles that is VAR in Scotland, which he was rightly critical of. All the best and thanks for the memories.

Hector: The way ahead for Motherwell is to continue with Askou's management plan and tactics by appointing a senior player, such as Stephen O'Donnell, to apply the methodology established by Askou.

David: We've had managers who brought silverware, we've had managers who took us further up the league but no manager has brought the beautiful brand of football and the joy in the terraces like the big man has. Thanks Jens. A heartfelt best of luck from us all.

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Motherwell chairman Kyrk Macmillan says the club have been "continually working on contingencies" to ensure they can build on the work done by Jens Berthel Askou.

Askou, who has left Fir Park to join French side Toulouse as their head coach, spent just one season at the club, but brought with him a progressive brand of football that saw the club secure a fourth-place finish and European football.

"First of all, I want to wish Jens all the very best for the future," Macmillan said.

"When we brought Jens to Motherwell, there was an understanding that if there was success, the club wouldn't stand in the way of Jens progressing to his next club if it was the correct opportunity at the right time.

"Toulouse is a club playing in one of the top-five divisions in Europe, and it is an excellent opportunity for him. I hope this move brings him more success. Thank you, Jens."

The Dane was appointed following the shock departure of Michael Wimmer last year, with the Motherwell board once again opting to open up their managerial search to candidates across the continent.

Macmillan says the club will continue to follow this template for future appointments as they prepare for European qualifiers and likely transfer interest in many of their star players.

"This season has been a special one.

"I'm a Motherwell fan, and it has been a joy to watch the team operate at such a high level.

"It's no secret that we have got a strategy in place that we will continue to build upon our model, using the same principles, as we enter this new campaign.

"Managers leaving a club can be a hard pill to swallow, and whilst we appreciate Jens for what he has done here in the last 11 months, we have been continually working on contingencies and learnings to ensure we do not rip up and start again but continue to build and grow.

"There's lots to be excited about.

"We have over 20 contracted first-team players, European football on the horizon and crowds are 40% up at Fir Park.

"We will continue working hard behind the scenes and will update supporters in due course. This is the start of a journey, not the end."

Jens Berthel Askou has officially left Motherwell to become the head coach of Toulouse, so what now for Motherwell?

After the successive appointments of Michael Wimmer and Askou, are you confident the club will identify another successful Fir Park manager?

What type of person is needed at the club now after Askou's departure?

Give us your thoughts here.

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"A glimpse of what this club is capable of when executing ambitions strategically and boldly."

Jens Berthel Askou has left Motherwell to become head coach of Toulouse.

The Fir Park club agreed a compensation package with Toulouse for the departure of Askou, who says "grateful is the best word to describe" his Motherwell tenure.

After just one season at the club, the Dane has left an indelible mark, ushering in scintillating, brave attacking football that won praise from many.

Read his full parting message to the Motherwell fans below:

"Grateful is the best word to describe how I feel about my time as a manager of Motherwell FC.

"This past year has been an amazing journey.

"The buy-in and support from players, staff, board members, volunteers and supporters have been invaluable for me to lead the development of the club.

"There have been so many special moments along the way, but the way the season ended with a hard-fought win at Easter Road, leaving the club in a position of chasing European football next season, couldn't have been written better.

"Special opportunities come rare in football. And you don't know when they present themselves.

"So sometimes you have to leave great things behind to create new ones no matter how hard it is.

"This year has not just been a year of joy, excitement, togetherness and success. It has also been a glimpse into the future. A glimpse of what this club is capable of when executing ambitions strategically and boldly.

"Now I will follow this future from outside. Excited and optimistic on behalf of everyone at Motherwell Football Club. Knowing that I played a small part. And with memories of something truly special.

"A huge THANK YOU to everyone who I've met along the way.

"Mon the Well."

Motherwell fans, we asked for your views on French Ligue 1 side Toulouse's approach for manager Jens Berthel Askou.

Here's what some of you had to say:

Stu: It would have been good to get a couple of seasons from Jens to see what he could do but if bigger jobs come along you can't blame him for advancing his career. Ultimately we attract players and managers of this calibre by giving them a platform to perform, with the knowledge if they are successful this will happen. If this move happens I wish him all the best and a huge thanks for the football he brought to Motherwell this season.

John: I would like him to stay for European football next season. I will be gutted if he does go, I'll just be glad he's not going to Celtic.

Andrew: I'd love to see him have a go at Europe with his brand of football but it is obvious that clubs with bigger budgets will be interested. One more year Jens, please? Make a success of it and you can pick your job anywhere in Europe. Roberto Martinez for a heroic return to Fir Park anyone?

David: I think Jens should stay one more season to see how far he can take this side domestically and in Europe. Moving to a bigger club is always a risk as their expectations are invariably higher, so staying one more season at Motherwell could be the best thing he does.

Stuart: I am hoping that the thought of leaving Motherwell for the Mediterranean and the French top division isn't of interest, but I feel it is a forlorn hope. JBA has been a breath of fresh air in Scottish football and if he does go, I hope we maintain the style of football for years to come as he's proven it can be successful in Scotland. Whatever he decides, thank you for the memories.

Susan: When we saw him at the last home match he didn't look like a man about to depart Fir Park, that was further reaffirmed at Easter Road. I really hope he gives us one more season.

Motherwell have reached a financial agreement with Toulouse for manager Jens Berthel Askou and the Dane is finalising details with the French club. (Sacha Tavolieri on X), external

Reports that Motherwell and Toulouse have reached a financial agreement for Jens Berthel Askou are premature.(Graeme McGarry on X), external

Centre-half Liam Gordon, the 30-year-old who is out of contract with Motherwell, is hoping to agree a new deal whether or not Jens Berthel Askou remains as manager. (The Scotsman), external

Read Thursday's Scottish Gossip in full.

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French Ligue 1 side Toulouse have made an official approach to Motherwell for manager Jens Berthel Askou.

The 43-year-old Dane impressed during his first campaign in Scotland as he led Motherwell to a fourth-place Scottish Premiership finish while arguably playing the best football in the country.

Well fans, how do you feel about the approach from Toulouse? Does it feel inevitable Askou will leave this summer or might he stick around for European football next term?

Have your say here

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Motherwell are in talks with defender Liam Gordon over a new deal and have confirmed seven departures from Fir Park this summer.

Callum Slattery's exit, Sam Nicholson's impending move to Livingston and Andy Halliday's retirement had already been announced.

Alongside that trio, Kofi Balmer, Zach Robinson and Dylan Wells move on while Stephen Welsh returns to Celtic after his loan spell.

Olly Whyte, 19, who spent the season on loan at Stenhousemuir, has agreed a new contract while talks are continuing with 18-year-old Zander McAllister.

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Lukas Fadinger has signed a one-year contract extension with Motherwell after becoming a near ever-present in the side during a first year of his two-year contract described as a "wonderful story" by manager Jens Berthel Askou.

The 25-year-old Austrian midfielder, who arrived last summer after leaving Rheindorf Altach, is now contracted until 2028.

Askou pointed out some might have been concerned that Fadinger arrived after the manager who signed him, Michael Wimmer, had left.

"That didn't seem to bother him and he very quickly turned into one of the most consistent and dependable performers in the team this season," he told Motherwell's website.

"His development into a dynamic line-breaking six, scoring important goals and running for two, has made him the most used player in this season at the club.

"His wonderful calm and including personality has been an equally important asset to the dressing room."

Fadinger has made 43 appearances - missing only two matches, one through suspension and the other when his partner was giving birth.

He has also scored five goals, including the weekend winner against Hibernian that sealed European football.

Fadinger has "loved every minute here this season" and excited to extend my contract at this fantastic club".

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Callum Slattery is leaving Motherwell after five years, the Fir Park club have announced.

The English midfielder, 27, made 147 appearances and scored 18 goals for the Steelmen.

Slattery returned from a 12-month injury lay-off in January last year and has played an integral role this season in helping Motherwell finish fourth in the Scottish Premiership and secure a Conference League qualifying place.

"It's always hard to say goodbye," Slattery said.

"I arrived here as a 21-year-old boy with little first-team football. Now, I'm leaving a man having made almost 150 appearances for the club, having countless memories and having a lot of appreciation for this football club.

"It has given me an unbelievable platform to go out and play regularly, and even when I was in my darkest days, it supported me throughout everything.

"To finish with those celebrations at Easter Road was the perfect ending to my five years here. I want to thank everyone at the club for what they have done for me. The fans – where do I even start?

"You have supported me through everything; you've had my back through thick and thin, and we've had some wonderful moments throughout my time here. You deserve nothing less than a good European tour next season, and I hope you all have a wonderful experience.

"To see the stands so busy this season has been remarkable, and I hope you can continue to support them in those large numbers next season."

Jonathan Sutherland
Sportscene presenter

Raphael Sallinger - Hibernian

On the losing side, but made five saves.

Tom Sparrow - Motherwell

A midfielder by trade, Sparrow has never let Motherwell down at right back.

Stephen Welsh - Motherwell

On loan from Celtic, Welsh has been a real leader at Fir Park. Played with heart, soul and real quality. Had an effort ruled out for a foul.

Ryan Astley - Dundee

Scored the winning goal to send the Dundee faithful home happy.

Tuur Rommens - Rangers

Won all his duels against Falkirk and looks a good signing by Danny Rohl.

Findlay Curtis - Kilmarnock

Surely has to be in the World Cup squad. Made the previous squad, and since then his form has been electric.

Callum McGregor - Celtic

Much has been made - rightly so - of the impact made by the return of Martin O'Neill in steering Celtic to another title. But in his own way, the captain at the centre of this team has quietly done the steering on the pitch. Since the Dundee United game there has been much more of a steely resolve and intensity when required from Celtic, and McGregor has embodied that mission in the post-split games. His teammates voiced their praise for his leadership on and off the pitch throughout what's been a tumultuous campaign that saw Brendan Rodgers and then Wilfried Nancy depart. Throughout it all McGregor has been the constant. The emotion poured out of him at the end said it all.

Lukas Fadinger - Motherwell

A steely presence all season for Motherwell. His deflected goal was the difference against Hibs.

Nicky Clescenco - Kilmarnock

Took his goal well. Looked lively and creative in the rout of Livingston.

Joe Hugill - Kilmarnock

Two goals against Livingston upped his tally to eight in his past 12 games for Kilmarnock. Has thrived under Neil McCann.

Youssef Chermiti- Rangers

Looked like an absolute world-beater against Falkirk. His goals were superb. Has had his critics, but 15 Premiership goals is a respectable tally. His challenge next season will be to up that tally, and be more consistent.

Watch all the highlights as Motherwell secured fourth spot and European football next season with a 1-0 win at Hibs. Available to UK users only.

Motherwell fans, we asked for your views on the 1-0 win over Hibernian that confirmed European football next season. Here's a taste of what you had to say...

Mark: Jens Berthel Askou has delivered a season to remember for us Well fans. Hope he stays while us Steelmen look out our passports for next season. If we build on this season the whole league could be in for a surprise. In Jens we trust.

Alistair: Askou's approach has been a breath of fresh air. Our playing style is a joy to watch and we have easily played the best football all season. Looking forward to our foray into Europe.

Alan: Another classic performance from ten-men Motherwell. This is an incredible achievement from Askou in his first season. He has developed a system that works and all the players have adapted and developed it over the season. Congratulations to all the team and back room staff for these efforts over the season. A wonderful end to the campaign achieved with ten men for the last 30 minutes.

David: We have been the best football playing team in the country. Winning the Cup in 1990 was amazing but this year has been incredible. Well done lads.

Robert: Best I've seen in 60 years. Thank you Jens, for bringing belief back to our team and Lanarkshire.

Stephen: Today is the perfect example of the courage, belief and ability of this squad. To go to Easter Road, battle against a Hibs team in good form and play them off the park from minute one, is evidence that this squad and staff are special. The best team and style of play I have ever seen from a Motherwell side. Let's build and go again next year.

Robert: An excellent win today, to round off one of the best seasons I can remember. Our players and staff this season have been fantastic and it's been a real privilege to watch. I would love our manager to stay, but after his comments to BBC Scotland today, I think he'll be offski.

Jim: A brilliant end to a season of wonderful football. We totally dominated the game from start to finish, even after going down to ten men. The scenes at the end when the players, manager, backroom and fans celebrating, where just a joy to be part of. Thank you to everyone connected with the club. I hope Jens stays with us, but either way, a massive thank you to him. Europe here we come.

Image source, SNS

Sam Nicholson has agreed to join Livingston for next season as the experienced midfielder moves on from Motherwell.

The 32-year-old missed the first half of this season with a knee injury, making 11 appearances as a substitute in all competitions since January.

The former Hearts and Bristol Rovers player moved to Fir Park from Colorado Rapids in January 2024.

His last act in a Motherwell shirt was to concede a contentious stoppage-time penalty in Wednesday's 3-2 defeat to Celtic.

Livingston have been busy in the transfer market since their relegation to the Championship was confirmed, with Jack Wilkie and Tyrese Sinclair also signed up in recent days.

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Motherwell manager Jens Berthel Askou: "It feels fantastic. It is amazing to stand here today and have achieved what we set out to do for a long time.

"To get a place in Europe and reach for the maximum possible in this season. I think we've got that.

"Through one performance after another that have been incredible. We have played some wonderful football lately as well, we did not quite get the points we wanted to.

"But to get it the way we did today by dominating from start to finish, it became difficult last 20 minutes with one man down. But we put up a fight and still threaten them and press forward, and defending our box with our life when we had to.

"Incredible moments to be proud of, and I'm so moved to be part of this.

"The way the supporters have been behind our approach from day one, and fallen in love with the team as the team have fallen in love with their willingness and ability to show up all over Scotland.

"It's a special thing to experience that connection and wonderful to have that celebration down in the corner.

"These boys in there will be remembered by the fans for a very, very long time. Our intention as a club is to keep building on what we are doing.

"Now we all get a little rest, some will move on which is natural when you have performed like this. New ones will come but no matter what this club will keep driving forward and keep being ambiitous about what we're doing, with a brave approach."

The Motherwell boss says now is not the time to talk about his own future, but enjoy the moment.

Ten-man Motherwell secured fourth spot in the Scottish Premiership and guaranteed European football with a narrow win over Hibernian.

What a season from Jens Berthel Askou and his players. What did you make of it all?!

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