The game will provide an opportunity for Motherwell fans to acknowledge the very real contribution that our captain has made to the club since he first wore claret and amber sixteen years ago. Following his return following a spell at Firhill (2000-2003) he has been a fixture in our defence and he had accumulated over 350 appearances for the Mighty ‘Well.
During this time he has built up a record number of international appearances for Northern Ireland and he is, by some distance, the player with most caps while a Motherwell player (54).
It was Terry Butcher who made the decision to bring him back to Fir Park and he has played a significant part in our relative success in recent years. He led us into the UEFA Cup and the Europa League and there have been some memorable moments at Hampden.
He played in the 2005 CIS Cup final and in May this year he had the honour of leading his team mates to the Scottish Cup final. One highlight he’ll remember well was the goal he scored against St Johnstone in this year’s cup semi final. It was his first in five years!
This game will bring to an end his testimonial and it would be fitting for as many Motherwell fans as possible to attend the game on Wednesday 13 July. At this time of year there are lots of pre-season warm up games available but of all the friendlies in July this is the one that should be at the top of the list.
A rare sight - Craigan scores!