Graham Alexander thought he was just delaying the inevitable when Stephen O’Donnell extended his short-term deal at Motherwell until the end of the season.
That was in January, and even he expected him to be on his way in the summer.
But now he’s convinced the Scotland star to stick around for another two years, the Fir Park boss hopes the right-back can help him persuade others to do likewise.
Delighted O’Donnell has put pen to paper on a new two-year contract.
Skipper Declan Gallagher heads a list of Well stars also in the final few months of their deals, including Allan Campbell, Chris Long, Liam Polworth and Devante Cole, among others.
And Alexander is hopeful O’Donnell’s commitment can convince others something is stirring at Fir Park.
He hailed the deal with the international ace and said: “It is a big boost for me as the manager as it tells me we can attract really good players and internationals.
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