Five of Motherwell’s most talented youngsters have signed professional terms with the club and will form a part of the new Under 20s squad next term.
The five (L-R), Steven Higgins (Motherwell), Fraser Johnston (Strathaven), Dale Shirkie (Mauchline), Morgyn Neil (Motherwell) and Paul McCafferty (Motherwell) were all stand-outs with the Under 17s squad last season and have been promoted for the up-coming season.
And with the SPL’s newest league set to include at least two overage players, Academy Director Gordon Young said: “I am pleased that, once again, we’ve been able to promote from within and these lads have deserved their professional contract.
“All five have been with us for between five and six years and Motherwell have played a large part in their footballing career so far. Two of them are already youth Internationalists so have a degree of experience and playing at a very high standard.
“But it will be a big step up for the lads; the move to the Under 20s with two overage players will bring them face to face with some really experienced professionals but that can only be a positive thing.
“It’s also pleasing to have three of the five are from the Motherwell and surrounding areas , a priority in our scouting network
“I wish the every success in their careers and hope they can establish themselves as future Motherwell players.”