Motherwell Want New Man In By October 17

Motherwell aim to appoint a new manager in time for the visit of Premiership champions Celtic on October 17.

Caretaker boss Stephen Craigan will stay in charge for the trip to Dundee on Saturday but the club's under-20s manager has yet to declare his intention to challenge for the role.

The club are still going through applications and no timescale has been drawn up for the interview stage.

Former Kilmarnock manager Mixu Paatelainen and his fellow Finn, former Motherwell midfielder Simo Valakari, have declared their interest.

A club spokesman said: "The board met on Monday evening for an initial review of the list of applicants for the role of first-team manager.

"We have received in excess of 75 applications and are delighted with the high quality of candidates.

"We are keen to undertake a detailed interview process to ensure we appoint a manager who shares the vision for the club and has the skills necessary to achieve the various goals required.

"Due to the number of applicants, it will take some time to complete the selection process and no interviews will take place this week.

"The board have therefore asked Stephen Craigan to continue in his position for the Dundee game this Saturday, which he has agreed to do.

"The club hope to make an appointment prior to the next game after the international break."