Former Motherwell assistant Kenny Black reckons the Steelmen top three surge will be a big platform for the talented squad at Fir Park.
Black, who helped ‘Well finish third in 2012 and earn and consecutive runners up finishes in the SPL in 2013 and 2014, feels like the current crop of talent can replicate the former glories.
Ex-assistant manager, caretaker gaffer and player Black helped give a chance to Darren Randolph, who would go on to forge a career in the Premier League, and Shaun Hutchinson – who has turned out for Fulham and Millwall.
With James Scott already sealing a move to Hull City on transfer deadline day, Black said: “At that point in time we had a marvellous squad who competed at a very high level.
“For me, one of the most rewarding things from that time has been to see the levels some of these guys have gone on to play at.
“I’m proud of the likes of Darren Randolph, who is playing in the Premier League now. He has went on to represent Ireland at the Euro’s as well.
“You look at Shaun Hutchinson who has went on to build a great career for himself in England playing in the Championship.
“At that point we had a really strong nucleus; the likes of Stephen Craigan and Keith Lasley.
“Keith is still at Motherwell; these are the guys that are key to your team.
“It shows that if you are part of a team like that you can really kick on.
“That should be motivation for the players who are there just now. You can go on this journey where you are punching above your weight and other clubs will start to take notice.”
The 56-year-old says he is delighted to see the Steelmen battling it out at the top of the division once again.
He went on: “It’s been two or three seasons since Motherwell have had the chance to compete at the very top end of the table.
“Rangers and Celtic apart, it’s a very competitive league this season and it’s great for Motherwell to be in that mix.
“You look at Hearts and Hibs; you would expect them to be the traditional powerhouses in Scotland but they are struggling just now.
“Motherwell are getting used to punching well above their weight but it should be recognised the brilliant work that is being achieved at the club.”
