Baraclough believes he laid foundations for success

Ian Baraclough believes he has helped lay the foundations for future success at Motherwell despite his sudden departure from Fir Park.

The 44-year-old Englishman led Motherwell to Premiership safety in May with a stunning play-off triumph over Rangers, having been appointed in December last year.

But he was sacked last week following the club's League Cup defeat by Morton. In a statement issued by Oporto Sports, a management firm, Baraclough said: "I would like to take this opportunity to thank everyone connected with Motherwell Football Club during my year at Fir Park.

"Understandably, I am disappointed to have departed, but I am equally proud of my time at the club. We worked extremely hard in the summer to put an infrastructure in place to allow the club to flourish in the long term. These foundations will benefit the club for years to come, I am sure.

"When I joined, Motherwell were facing a difficult time at the foot of the Scottish Premiership. That battle continued, but through the tremendous efforts of the players and staff we were able to secure safety with a landmark 6-1 aggregate victory over Rangers FC in the play-off final.

"We were aided, throughout, by the club's loyal and passionate supporters. If they continue to support the new manager in the same manner as which they afforded me, I am certain that the club will show further progress and climb the division.

"A special mention should go to my assistant manager, Stephen Robinson and my other close circle of support staff, who gave me great service during our time together. A manager needs loyal, hard working colleagues who go above and beyond, and I was certainly given that in abundance by my staff.

"Personally, I feel stronger for the experience of managing in the Scottish top flight, working within the typical constraints faced by managers at that level. It was a true privilege to work for a club with such a rich and proud heritage and my year at Motherwell is something I will never forget.''

Baraclough added that he retained a "real optimism and zest'' for his work.

"My football philosophy remains unchanged; I am committed to playing an attractive, attacking brand of football, whilst helping to create a team that the club's supporters can identify with,'' the former Scunthorpe and Sligo Rovers boss said.