This milestone is just the latest in a career that has seen the 32 year old as a fixture in the Motherwell defence. Stevie has taken part in more SPL/SPFL games than any other player and he holds our European appearance record having represented us in UEFA competitions on 19 occasions. His early promise earned him the Supporters Association Player of the Year for season 2000/1. He’s even scored four goals!
One for the future?
After his first seven seasons he was tempted to Southend United and played 67 games for the The Shrimpers but he returned to Motherwell when Mark McGhee made one of his better signings. Since Alex McLeish persuaded him that his future lay at Fir Park, Stevie has played under Kampman, Davies, Black, Butcher, McGhee, Gannon, Brown and McCall (he was spared the Malpas experience).
A sunny day in February 2005
A quick look at the records puts the 500 game mark in context. Hammell now finds himself between Joe Wark (469) and Bobby Ferrier (626) in the list of Motherwell’s top appearances and in this modern era that see players’ contracts often restricted to one or two seasons it’s a feat that will be unlikely to be surpassed.
Stevie had a testimonial season in 2012/13 and Everton provided the opposition for the featured match. He has one full cap (against Sweden in 2004) and represented the national team at U21 level twelve times.
His contribution to Motherwell’s success in recent years has been immense. There is real concern when suspension or injury forces his omission. Our strength comes not from individual brilliance but from close knit teamwork and Hammell is an integral part. His skilful and determined play both in defence and as an attacker are recognised throughout the Scottish game. A look back to Saturday’s game against Celtic brings memories of a few goal saving blocks. At the other end and at other times Sutton (and Higdon last season) benefitted from his deliveries from the left wing.
2001 v Livingston
While there are many fond memories of our number three, it’s important to recognise that we can benefit from a few more years before he hangs up the boots. His latest two year deal expires at the end of this season and it would be a fitting reward (and a shrewd move) to celebrate this achievement with the offer of an extension that would be welcomed by everyone associated with the club.
He wore the captains’s armband on Saturday, it would be appropriate to let him lead the team out at Tannadice.
Congratulations Stevie.
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