Motherwell FC is tonight delighted to confirm the signing of Estonian International Henri Anier on a two-and-a-half year deal.
Anier arrived in the summer on loan from Viking Fotballklubb, and has been a big hit, netting seven goals in seventeen starts and forming a deadly partnership with John Sutton.
The 23-year old, who also has five goals in thirteen starts for his country, was due to return to Norway next week but after days of negotiations, ‘Well are finally able to confirm his full-time stay at Fir Park.
After a penning a deal that will keep him in North Lanarkshire until the summer of 2016, the striker told MFC TV: “I am really happy things are tied up and my long-term future is sorted out.
“I’ve really enjoy the last six months in Scotland, the physicality of the game and how high-tempo it is. It’s quick and technically good too, a real challenge.
“It is important for any footballer to feel happy and welcome and the club, on and off the park, has did that for me and made it easy. I enjoy working under a great manager and coaching staff and training with the lads. It’s also a pleasure to play in front of the fans, who have been so good with me.
“My aim now is to try and develop as a player, score as many goals as I can for Motherwell and hopefully finish as high up the table as possible.
[pullquote]My aim now is to try and score as many goals as I can for Motherwell and hopefully finish as high up the table as possible.[/pullquote]
Chief Executive Leeann Dempster added: “As a Board, we have worked incredibly hard to keep both Lionel Ainsworth and Henri Anier at Fir Park against what is a tough financial climate within the game.
“It does not take an accountant to realise the impact of being knocked out of both Cup competitions for a club like ours. It has been a great few weeks on the park, however, somewhat more financially difficult off it.
“I want to pay special tribute to two directors in particular who helped fund the Anier deal; it would not have been possible otherwise. This gesture shows that we have a special bond at our club, with great people who all pull together. That includes the staff, players, directors and fans. I must also thank Viking who, throughout, have been very helpful and professional.
“It is more important than ever that we all show our passion and dedication by supporting the club as much is possible. To do this, I would urge anyone considering joining the ‘Well Society to do so.
“The Society is key to the success and future of the club. There has been somewhat of a lull in new memberships recently. Signing both players gives us all the chance to refocus and start these important discussions once again.
“Obviously everyone is delighted to keep both talents, we believe they have added significantly to our season, and look forward to what we hope is a successful conclusion to the current 2013/14 season.”
Henri signed his contract this evening and will complete his move in full following international registration formalities.