By Paul Marshall
January 30 2004

Stevie Hammell has signed a new deal which will keep him at the club until 2006. The defender put pen to paper on a new deal ending speculation about a move away from Fir Park. The 21 year old had been linked with a move to English First Division side Wigan Athletic during this month's transfer window.




Hammell playing against Stranraer

The youngster told the BBC " I am delighted that my future has been settled and I hope that the fans keep getting behind us. We've got some great young players here who are showing they can compete with the very best. "




Motherwell boss Terry Butcher was delighted the Scotland Under 21 International signed a new deal, he told the BBC , " He is respected by other players and managers. Steven has seen two of his best friends moving on to bigger clubs but he will keep improving as a player and can progress to the highest levels in the game. "


" He is one of our longest serving players and proves that clubs in Scotland such as Motherwell can develop players of outstanding quality. "


Butcher can see a bright future ahead for the youngster, he added, " His talent has already brought him a host of international honours at U21 level and I am convinced that he will go all way and win full international honours. "