Motherwell chief unhappy at fixture list

The schedule, unveiled by the SPFL on Friday morning, has given Motherwell two lengthy midweek trip to the Highlands, including one between Christmas and New Year.

In addition ‘Well have been given just two extra income-generating home matches against the Old Firm with four games away against the Glasgow rivals.

The festive schedule has given Motherwell a home match against Aberdeen on Christmas Eve and a trip to nearby Hamilton for a Hogmanay derby at New Douglas Park.

But sandwiched in between is a game away to Inverness Caley Thistle on Wednesday, December 28, and Mark McGhee’s men will be back on the road north just over a month later when they face Ross County in Dingwall on Wednesday, February 1.

Motherwell are at home to Celtic on Saturday, December 3, and host Rangers at Fir Park on Saturday, January 28.

But they face two trips to Celtic Park, on October 15 and February 18, and a further two matches at Ibrox on August 20 and April 1.

Burrows, recently promoted from general manager at Fir Park, told his Twitter followers: “I’m not normally one to be critical - but I have to say, I’m disappointed with the SPFL fixtures.

“Our fans are being asked to travel to both Inverness and R.County in a midweek, one being three days after Christmas, which makes little sense to me.

“In addition, we only have two home ‘Old Firm’ games, whereas some of our nearest competitors have four. From a sporting and financial point of view, that puts Motherwell at a real disadvantage.

“Previously, it was worked out that teams would have x2 vs Celtic and x1 vs Rangers (or vice versa). Prior to the split, which meant everyone was in the same boat on and off the field. Hugely disappointed.”

Motherwell kick off their campaign against Kilmarnock at Rugby Park on Saturday, August 6, with theitr first home game against St Johnstone a week later.