PLAN IS TO STAY TRUE TO FORM

Boss Stuart facing new season with much-changed side but is determined to keep Well flying

- MICHAEL GANNON

STUART KETTLEWELL is up for the challenge of repeating last season's incredible Old Firm style form - despite losing half of his winning team.

The Motherwell boss blasted the Fir Park men to safety last term with a stunning second half of the campaign where he picked up more points than champions Celtic and only one less than Michael Beale's Rangers.

But Kettlewell is facing a Steelmen rebuilding mission with top scorer Kevin van Veen heading for the exit along with youngster Max Johnston, defender Dan Casey and midfielder Sean Goss.

Centre-back Calum Butcher is also facing four months out after surgery - leaving the Well gaffer with a job on his hands.

Kettlewell wants a lean, mean squad this term but he's hoping a cool £300,000 compensation cheque for Johnston and a few more departures might leave him room for four new faces and tee him up for the task of kicking on from last season.