Motherwell are set to rely on their young leaders in the Conference League opener against HB Torshavn, with key star Tawanda Maswanhise ruled out with a jaw injury.
What happened?
Motherwell boss Alfred Johansson has insisted that the club's young leaders are ready to step up in the Conference League opener against HB Torshavn. Johansson will take charge of the Premiership side for the first time in Thursday's second round qualifier first leg at Fir Park against Faroese opposition.
Why it matters for Motherwell
The absence of key star Tawanda Maswanhise due to a jaw injury is a significant blow for Motherwell, but Johansson is confident that the club's young leaders can fill the gap. "To be honest, the captaincy has not been a big focus for me the first couple of weeks here," Johansson said. "For me, Paul and Stephen run that dressing room really, really well. I'm super happy how much responsibility Stephen has been taking on the pitch in the pre-season and how both are taking responsibility off the pitch."
What comes next?
Motherwell have signed defender Dylan Williams from Burton Albion ahead of this clash and he will be available for selection in a boost for Johansson. Johansson can see the long-term vision at Fir Park, amid a summer of comings and goings after last term's impressive fourth-placed finish under predecessor Jens Berthel Askou, with more arrivals expected. "I think it's difficult to give a number as it's also a little bit based on how many go out, but I'm pretty sure you'll see a couple of new faces before the transfer window closes," Johansson said.
League standing: 4th in Premiership, 54 pts, 14W-12D-7L from 33 games, recent form WLDLW. Goals this season: 52 scored, 29 conceded (+23 goal difference). Title race: 16 points behind leaders Heart Of Midlothian. Last result: Motherwell 3-4 Genk (2026-07-17). Recent form (last 5): 2W-0D-3L (LWWLL, most recent first). Next fixture: vs Heart Of Midlothian (at home, 2026-10-24) (1st in the table).
