Stephen O’Donnell embracing new boss Jens Berthel Askou’s style at Motherwell

Motherwell defender Stephen O’Donnell is enjoying the challenge of learning fresh demands under the club’s third manager of 2025.

After two years of relative stability under Stuart Kettlewell, Motherwell employed their second foreign manager this year when they appointed Jens Berthel Askou to replace German Michael Wimmer.

The Dane has a similar attacking philosophy to his predecessor in terms of pressing high up the park but his desire to play the ball out from the back has been more pronounced.

Askou faces a big test on Tuesday when Motherwell host Morton in the Premier Sports Cup needing victory to guarantee progression to the second round.

On adapting to the new boss, O’Donnell said: “We found it with the old manager when he came in. It was a different kind of style, different ideas. And the gaffer has probably amplified that a wee bit more.

“I find it exciting, interesting, you’re learning different ideas and different ways in which people think of the game. You’re always trying to learn. And I think that’s something I’m capable of doing. I’m excited to continue to learn.

“I’ve been enjoying it, trying to work on different things. The most important thing is that we are seeing progression on the pitch and in the style, and hopefully getting the wins that make that progression easier.”

Elsewhere, Falkirk take on Queen’s Park at home while Kilmarnock bid to cement their place at the top of Group H when they travel to Fife to take on Kelty Hearts.

Dundee head coach Steven Pressley takes his team to Bonnyrigg Rose as he bids to secure his first win, although progression is already beyond his team.