McCall and Black

By Graham Barnstaple
September 9 2011

Motherwell's Manager Stuart McCall was named Manager of the Month for August after steering his side to joint top of the SPL.

Motherwell have lost only one of their opening six matches, a defeat to the defending champions Rangers. They have beaten Inverness and Hearts at home and won away at St. Mirren and Dunfermline while drawing with Kilmarnock atRugbyPark.

As with any manager who wins these awards McCall played down his role and praised the back room staff which support him, "When you win manager of the month undoubtedly you've had the team of the month, and I think that as much as myself and Kenny (Black) and all the backroom staff are delighted to accept it, it's been down to the players."

There is no doubt McCall and Motherwell deserve the recognition given the football his side has played in the opening six games of the season, after losing half a team in the summer.

His additions have been quality with both Michael Higdon and especially Nicky Law making a big impression.

He seems to have built a strong team spirit which is helping his thin squad pull out results where they may have lost in previous seasons.

McCall has a big fortnight ahead starting with Celtic away tomorrow and then three home games in a week, including a League Cup tie with Hibs with Motherwell looking to repeat their cup exploits of last season.