2.20pm

Stephen Pearson is still a Motherwell player - for the time being at least.  Celtic are reported to have bid £300,000 for the Scotland midfielder but the move appears to have stalled as Terry Butcher is holding out for a loan player to be included in the deal.  Several Premiership clubs are also believed to be monitoring the situation, and Terry Butcher is quoted as saying:
"Nothing has been agreed with Celtic or any other club. As far as I know, Stephen is just waiting to see what develops over the coming weeks.

"I've spoken to Martin O'Neill about a couple of his players, but all I made were tentative enquiries.   It's no secret I want to strengthen the squad, and I've been speaking to other managers as well.   If Stephen does decide to leave, then I would like to have a replacement." 

Young 'Well defender William Kinniburgh will be back at Fir Park on Monday after his loan spell with Ayr United comes to an end on Saturday.  The 19-year-old has been in impressive form for the 1st Division side during his two-month spell at Somerset Park, and Ayr boss Campbell Money had hoped to keep him for longer:
''We won't be signing Willie but he has been absolutely terrific for us and I've loved having him here.  'I wouldn't mind thanking him and Terry for letting him come here. If I was Terry I'd be recalling him as well."

On the injury front, there's bad news for Steven Craig who came on as a substitute at Tynecastle after recovering from a knee injury.  He pulled a thigh muscle and is now ruled out for another two or three weeks.  Meanwhile David Partridge will again be missing on Saturday due to his groin injury.

Happy New Year to all Motherwell Fans!

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