Main Stand renamed after Phil O'Donnell

Motherwell Football Club today announced that the Main Stand at its Fir Park stadium is to be renamed the Phil O'Donnell stand.

Motherwell owner John Boyle said: "Since Phil's death there has been a heartfelt desire by everyone associated with Motherwell and throughout the football world to create a lasting memorial to Phil at Fir Park.

"There have been many suggestions put forward on how this should be done and all with the very best of intentions. However, the club and our supporters believe the renaming of the main stand as the Phil O'Donnell stand is entirely fitting in view of the outstanding contribution Phil made to the club over many years. We have consulted members of Phil's family who have indicated their support and appreciation of this tribute."

The Phil O'Donnell stand signage will be unveiled at the beginning of next season along with a commemorative plaque. A dedication ceremony will take place to which Phil's family will be invited.

Phil's father, Bernard, said: "We have all been deeply touched by the reaction to Phil's death and Eileen and the rest of the family will always be grateful for the kindness that has been shown. The family regards the naming of the stand after him as a great honour and we will always appreciate this in the years to come."

Martin Rose, chairman of the Motherwell FC Supporters' Trust: "On behalf of the Motherwell fans I would like to say we are fully behind this decision."

Embroidered tribute to Phil O'Donnell

As a tribute and mark of respect, Motherwell FC can announce the players and officials will adorn strips complete with Phil O'Donnell's embroidered signature on their chest for the rest of the season. "Uncle Phil" sadly passed away two weeks ago and the football department at the club wanted to have something permanent to remember him by.

Working closely with Rennie Keith and Dave Taylor from Provan Sports / The 'Well Shop, the new strips will be worn for the first time against Hearts in the Scottish Cup Fourth Round tie at Tynecastle tomorrow.

Kit controller Alan McDonald spoke on behalf of the whole football department saying, "It's just something the players are doing in tribute to Phil. The idea and whole project was co-ordinated by Rennie at Provan Sport who really took the bull by the horns and got it done.

"It will be exclusive to the first-team kits as it's the team's own tribute. It's something small but sometimes it's the small things that make all the difference. It's on the home and away kits as well as the coach's gear and we'll wear it proudly for the rest of the season."