Motherwell have secured the futures of two key figures ahead of the 2025/26 campaign, with Callum Slattery and Stephen O’Donnell both committing to extended stays at Fir Park
Slattery, whose career has been marked by resilience after a long-term injury, will remain for another year after the club activated a 12-month extension clause in his contract.
O’Donnell, who has been capped 26 times by Scotland, will also continue for his sixth season at the club, having triggered an automatic extension following his impressive performances since joining in June 2020.
Motherwell head coach Michael Wimmer expressed his delight with the news, highlighting the professionalism and leadership that both players bring to the squad.
Slattery’s recent return to full fitness has seen him rediscover his pre-injury form, scoring a brace during a Scottish Premiership draw with St Mirren on March 15 and also providing an assist in the Steelmen’s stunning win over Rangers at Ibrox the previous week.
O’Donnell’s experience and work ethic continue to set a strong example for younger players.
With both players now firmly in place for next season, Wimmer, who replaced Stuart Kettlewell in February, is optimistic about the team’s prospects as he looks to lay down the foundations for continued success.
Read more:
-
Ipswich Town striker George Hirst joins Scotland squad after international clearance
-
Brendan Rodgers praises Celtic player for doing 'really well' against Rangers
“This is great news for everyone,” the Motherwell boss stated.
“Both players are true professionals, and I have loved working with both of them. They have both had different journeys but give everything for the badge.
“We are trying to get the foundations in place for next season, which is great because after four weeks of being here, I have a better picture of everything.
“Callum has been excellent since I arrived and is a real spark in the team. He suits the style we want to implement here and has shown a great attitude.
“He has done so well to get back to full fitness, and I still think he has room to develop. Hopefully we can achieve that together.
“Stephen is a great character. He trains excellently and is a role model for younger players. He sets an example by his work ethic, and it’s great to know he’ll be here next season. His application and determination for success are what we want and need.
“He is a leader, and it’s great news that he will be here next season.”
Read more:
“When I signed my contract last summer, I didn’t know what would lie ahead for me,” Slattery, who had a challenging career path before joining Motherwell, explained.
“The club showed faith and trust in me, and my mission has been to get back fully fit so I can thank them for that. It’s been so good to be back on the pitch, scoring goals and creating new memories.
“None of this would be possible if it wasn’t for the support I have received from my loved ones, the club staff and all the fans.
“This place has been my home for the last four years, and I’ve gotten really used to being here. I hope we can finish this season strongly and have a successful campaign next season.”
Meanwhile, O’Donnell, who has made 175 appearances for the club, praised the sense of community at Motherwell.
“I’m proud to be a Motherwell player,” the full-back added.
“This is my local area, and I’ve always given 100% to the cause. The community feeling is prevalent, and it’s an exciting time to be here.
“I’ll never take for granted playing for this wonderful football club. There’s a real togetherness here at the minute, and I think there’s optimism for what’s to come under the new management team. This season has had it’s difficulties with injury but I’ve still managed to play plenty games.
“As ever, I’ll give it everything. Not just in matches, but during the week. I want the very best for everyone here and will do my utmost best to deliver that.”
