Motherwell captain Keith Lasley has backed Scott McDonald to shrug off his transfer spat with Neil Lennon and show the Hibs fans exactly what they have missed out on at Easter Road this Sunday.
The Australian forward and the Hibs manager traded barbs through the media after a proposed move to Edinburgh for the striker fell through.
Each man had his own version of the events that led McDonald to pledging another year of service to Motherwell instead, but Lasley is sure that any stick McDonald receives in Leith will roll right off his back.
Read more: Neil Lennon slaughters Scott McDonald over claims his heart was with Motherwell
“I don’t think that will faze Scotty one bit,” Lasley said. “I think anyone who knows Scott will tell you that there isn’t much that bothers him, and if anything it will only fire him up even more.
“To be honest though I think that both of them probably have other things to worry about.
“They are both strong characters and whatever has happened has happened. From our point of view we’re just delighted that Scott has stayed here. He was a big player for us last year and I’m sure he will be again next season.
“I’m certainly not privy to what happened behind the scenes in terms of their negotiations, but at the end of the day Scott has decided to stay at Motherwell and that’s great for us.
“Neil Lennon will have more to worry about in preparing his team for the season ahead, so I don’t think there will be too many issues on Sunday.
“I think it’s really good to have Neil back up here as well, he’s a strong character, as is Scott!”
That strong character is just one of a multitude of reasons why McDonald has become such an important figure for the Steelmen.
Lasley believes his influence on others, particularly the younger players at the club, is vital, but it is his contribution as a footballer that the ‘Well skipper values most.
“He really is a big part of the team, and he has become even more versatile in his play in terms of where he plays now too,” said Lasley.
“He’s dropped into midfield at times and shown his ability, and we all know that he can put the ball in the back of the net.
“He’s a very strong character who demands the best of himself and others around about him.
“I think especially when you have a philosophy going forward where the club are looking to promote young players, then characters like Scott can only help them along.
“His ability on the park and his drive off it rubs off on these younger guys.
“First and foremost though he’s just a good football player, and his best attribute is that he can still make a huge contribution for us on the pitch.
“We’re delighted to have him, delighted that he’s staying, and I expect him to have another big season for us.”
At the age of 36 and entering his seventeenth season as a professional, there may be those that will question how long Lasley himself can continue to operate at the highest level of Scottish football.
The Fir Park stalwart though has reassured his side’s supporters that there is still plenty of life in the old legs yet.
“Pre-season isn’t getting any easier,” he laughed, “but I’m relishing it more than ever.
“Anyone looking from the outside might say that they would expect me to say that, but it really is true that you appreciate the game more as you get older.
“I’m fit enough and I’m strong enough to go and have a decent season and contribute to the club as much as I can.
“I’m really looking forward to it and touch wood, I’ve managed to avoid injuries for the past wee while.
“I feel as if I’m fit and strong, and I just can’t wait to play a part this season.
“Hopefully I can then look forward to my 18th, 19th and 20th season in the future! My hunger to go and do well for the club is probably higher than it’s ever been.”
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