Former Motherwell midfielder Elliot Watt is targeting a Scotland call-up after completing a seven-figure transfer to Turkish Super Lig club Samsunspor last month. The 26-year-old, who had a stellar campaign at Fir Park under Jens Berthel Askou, believes playing in Turkey will boost his international prospects under new national team manager Sebastien Pocognoli.
This news was first reported by the Daily Record. Watt's move comes as Motherwell sit fourth in the Premiership with four points from two games, just two points behind leaders Celtic. The club has scored two goals and conceded one in their opening matches, with a recent form of draw-win. They face a tough next fixture away to Celtic on December 26th.
Elliot Watt had multiple offers this summer, including interest from Rangers, clubs in England, Europe, and Major League Soccer. He ultimately chose Samsunspor, a club that reached the UEFA Conference League last 16 last season and narrowly missed European qualification. The club's president aims for regular European competition and follows a model of signing younger players to develop and sell.
Watt sought advice about the move from former Scotland international Barry Douglas and ex-Hibernian midfielder Stevie Mallan. "Some people might look it and think you are so far away from the Scottish game that you are out of sight and kind of forgotten about," Watt said. He sees the challenge as a pathway, not an obstacle.
The midfielder has represented Scotland up to Under-21 level but was overlooked by former manager Steve Clarke for the World Cup squad. Belgium's Sebastien Pocognoli now leads the national team, offering Watt a fresh opportunity. His performances against top Turkish league talent, including potential matches against N'Golo Kante and Matteo Guendouzi at Fenerbahce, could catch the new manager's eye.
Watt's debut was delayed by a four-match SFA ban carried over from Scotland. The suspension stemmed from comments criticizing VAR after a penalty decision went against Motherwell in a match against Celtic last season. "It has been amazing. I missed the first game of the season because of the red card against Hibs," he explained. He finally debuted in a 2-0 win over Rizespor last weekend.
While Watt begins his new chapter, Motherwell are building their own campaign. The team's early season form shows promise, but they are dealing with several absences. Key players Callum Hendry, Jordan McGhee, and Paul McGinn are currently sidelined. Manager Askou will need to manage his squad depth carefully ahead of the busy festive schedule, which fans can track on the fixtures list.
The club's league position and goal difference are positive early signs. Supporters can monitor the team's progress in the standings as the season develops. Watt's successful sale for a significant fee also represents good business for the Fir Park side, providing resources as they aim to close the gap to Celtic at the top.
Immediate focus for the midfielder is a daunting home match against Fenerbahce, expected to draw 33,000 fans. He described the atmosphere at a recent away game with 15,000 supporters as deafening, anticipating an even greater occasion. After starting his career at St Johnstone and flourishing at Motherwell, this Turkish adventure is his biggest test yet.
Success in a league featuring stars like Mo Salah and Fabinho at Trabzonspor, alongside other new signings like Mohamed Diomonde and Alexandros Kyziridis, would make his case for Scotland undeniable. For Motherwell, the task is to maintain their solid start without several key figures, building on the foundation that helped develop talents like Watt.
