Russell Griffiths looking to secure survival with Motherwell
Russell Griffiths is aiming to secure a Ladbrokes Premiership future for himself as well as Motherwell in a pivotal week.
Russell Griffiths is aiming to secure a Ladbrokes Premiership future for himself as well as Motherwell in a pivotal week.
The on-loan Everton goalkeeper kept a clean sheet in his second appearance on Saturday as Motherwell edged out Hamilton to leapfrog their Lanarkshire rivals.
The 1-0 victory ensured the Steelmen will not face automatic relegation and they could avoid a play-off when they host Kilmarnock on Tuesday as Hamilton play Ross County in Dingwall.
Griffiths made an impressive stop from Alex D'Acol with Saturday's game goalless and the 21-year-old hopes to earn himself a long-term deal with Stephen Robinson's side.
"It was great to play my second game and to come out with a clean sheet was even better,'' said Griffiths, who joined Motherwell on loan in January after a temporary spell with Cheltenham.
"There was a big sigh of relief when the final whistle went. It was a nervous game to go into but the gaffer told me before the game not to be nervous, just to go out and play my game and show people what I can do.
"It was nice to make a save in an important game, it helps build my confidence up.
"It's been a hard few months trying to get in the team but I have been patient and thankfully I have been able to play the last couple of games.
"I played 24 games on the bounce at Cheltenham. I knew I wasn't coming up to be number one straight away, I knew I had to battle. I was hoping it would come a bit earlier but I'm happy now I'm playing and hoping I can see the season out strongly.
"I'm a free agent in the summer so hopefully everything goes well here and I can maybe sign here. I'm still waiting to hear back from Everton and what their plans are. We'll get the next few games out the way and see where we stand and take it from there.
"Obviously, depending on results, how I perform will contribute a lot to what happens with me next season.''
Craig Samson made way for Griffiths and the former Kilmarnock goalkeeper was not even on the bench on Saturday after being troubled by a groin issue.
But Samson was on the touchline wishing all of his team-mates well before the game and Griffiths feels such togetherness can help Motherwell get out of danger.
"Sammy has been brilliant for me,'' Griffiths said. His advice is always valuable. He is there for me before the game and speaks to me after the game, and he text me on Saturday night after the game.
"It's always difficult not being in the team, like I wasn't previously. But Sammy has always been there for me and everything he has said to me has been great. It just shows his true professionalism.
"That's the squad, it's together. It's the same with big Mick (Stephen McManus) and (Richard) Tait, they are out injured but they are there in the squad travelling to every game. That really shows the team's spirit and character.''