Motherwell started their pre-season clearout last night as skipper Peter Hartley was among 10 players to bid farewell to the club.
But there was some good news for Fir Park fans over the last few days as Tony Watt signed a new deal.
Gaffer Stephen Robinson has released seven players after their contracts came to an end or they turned down new contract offers.
And Hartley, who has been club captain for the past two season, joined goalkeepers Rohan Ferguson and Mark Gillespie, defenders Richard Tait and Adam Livingstone and midfielder Christian Illic on the released list. Christy Manzinga's departure was also confirmed after Robinson revealed last month the striker would not be kept on.
Hartley and Livingston took to Twitter last night to thank the club for the memories.
From the minute I walked through the door until today. I am truly honoured to play, represent & captain this great football club. Thanks for the memories.. supporter for life. #SIWY https://t.co/xE9CNe9g8k
— Peter Hartley (@PeterHartley88) May 31, 2020
I’d like to thank @MotherwellFC all the staff, and all the boys I’ve played with over the 13 years I’ve been there. Had the time of my life playing for the club I’ve loved my whole life. And I am forever great full to everyone through the years that have kept believing in me... https://t.co/l0QhvOPfxZ
— Adam Livingstone (@adamlivi03) May 31, 2020
Rolando Aarons, Mikael Ndjoli and Mark O’Hara also depart after their loans spells came to an end. They now return to their parent clubs at Newcastle United, Bournemouth and Peterborough, respectively.
Stephen Robinson told the club's official website: "I’d like to thank every player who is leaving for their efforts during their time at the club
“They leave us with our best wishes for the future.”
New deals are currently on the table for striker Chris Long, defenders Barry Maguire and Yusuf Hussain, goalkeeper PJ Morrison and midfielder Harry Robinson, who is Robinson's son.
Defender Charles Dunne, who had been out long-term through injury, has been presented with a short-term deal to consider, with a view to a longer deal if he can return to full fitness.
Meanwhile, one man who has already signed up for next season is striker Tony Watt.
The former Celtic striker joined on a short-term deal in February, scoring twice in six appearances, and he has done enough for Robinson to extend his deal.
Watt said: "I’m really happy to be staying at Motherwell.
“The manager and the coaching staff have been outstanding with me since I came to the club.
“The manager gave me a real belief when I joined and helped me get my confidence. I’m ready to do anything to repay that and help the club.
“It’s a place where I feel at home. I really feel I can make a mark and I can’t wait to get started again.”
Thrilled gaffer Robinson added: “We’re delighted Tony has agreed to sign for the season and we are looking forward to working with him.
“I believe he showed the quality he has when he came in earlier in the year. The fitter and stronger he gets, the bigger an asset he will be to us.
“I feel there is a lot more to come and he has shown me he really wants this. We will give him a platform to show his talent and give him a stage where he can be successful, with people who believe in him.”
The club are now preparing for training to resume next week following the Covid-19 shutdown. On Friday SPFL clubs were given the go-ahead from the Scottish Government to return on June 11, with a view to the new season kicking off on August 1.
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