Stephen Robinson knows survival is key for Motherwell this season
Stephen Robinson has downplayed the expectations on Motherwell ahead of the Premiership season. Well kick off their campaign against Hibernian on Sunday following an impressive campaign in 2017-18 that saw them finish seventh and reach the finals of both domestic cups.
It could have been even better, with the Steelmen dropping off significantly following a good start to their season, but Robinson insists his side will still be battling it out for survival, despite striker Curtis Main targeting a top-six finish.
The reality is, we have to stay in this division and I think people's expectations have to be tempered slightly,'' Robinson said.
Any extra budget we have had is to secure our assets and make sure we don't have any low-ball bids.
Expectations have risen based on our success last year but our main goal is still to make sure we stay in this division.''
They have suffered an early series of blows after Charles Dunne was ruled out for four months, Ryan Bowman for six weeks and Cedric Kipre, who made such an impression last season, moved to Wigan on Friday.
It could get tougher with an opening game against Hibs, who continue to improve under Neil Lennon and are now through to the third round of qualifying in the Europa League after coming through two legs against Asteras Tripolis.
They held on to a 1-1 draw in Greece on Thursday night and, despite the quick turnaround, Robinson expects them to be ready for their league opener.
He said: I think they will be well prepared and I'm sure they will be well aware of the threats we pose.
I think it will be an even playing field.''