Steelmen struggle in heat but boss upbeat

Motherwell boss Jens Berthel Askou says their training camp in the Netherlands couldn't have come at a better time, despite losing 3-0 to FC Twente in a preseason friendly.

- Andy McGilvray

Played in punishing 35 degree heat, Askou used the game to take a look at his players, and was pleased with what he saw.

But the Danish boss says the stint in Delden has been useful to get his ideas across.

Askou said: "There were some really good moments, especially in the first half.

"It was extremely hot today so it was physically a very difficult game against a top opponent, a top Dutch team.

"It was a good test for us and we showed enough bravery, movement and dynamic around the ball, created some really good opportunities, and could have created some more if they hadn't stopped us, illegally.

"That's exactly what we wanted to get out of it, to see us being brave and dynamic, and trying to do the things we've implemented. I think, in terms of that, the attitude and performance was spot-on.

"There are a lot of things to improve and get better and sharper, but that's totally as expected just now.