Baraclough rewards Motherwell stars

Baraclough made his mark in his first week as manager by telling the players they would be training on December 25 ahead of their home Scottish Premiership game against Partick Thistle two days later.

But a 1-0 win at Paisley saw Baraclough hand his players a welcome present.

The former Scunthorpe player said: "It was a little carrot there and hopefully it has put smiles on faces.

"They put a lot of work into last week and I just felt I should give them an extra day off on the Monday and get them in for two good days and let them have a bit of time with their family before coming to get ready for the game on Friday.

"I'm open to change. I don't like things being set in stone. I like to keep them on their toes - it keeps things fresh."

One thing that has not changed is the assistant manager at Fir Park with Kenny Black now committed to continuing his role.

Baraclough said: "I think he's happy. I'm delighted he is staying. He's been a familiar face for the players to have that connection.

"We have worked really well on the training ground. I said last week I wanted someone of Kenny's ilk to be alongside me and to have Kenny himself is great.

"We have moved forward together on that one and we will see where we go for the season."