Motherwell manager Stephen Robinson confirmed that “negotiations are ongoing” with goalkeepers Trever Carson and Mark Gillespie over new contracts and admitted he is “desperate” to keep one of the pair at Fir Park next season with both out of contract in the summer.
Carson has been linked with a move to Livingston and Aberdeen when his deal runs out and Robinson isn’t surprised at there being interest in either of his shot-stoppers.
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The one-time Celtic target hasn’t played since the 7-1 defeat by Rangers in November 2018 after he suffered a career-threatening blood clot while away on international duty with Northern Ireland – and Robinson knows it will be frustrating for the 31-year-old.
“We have offered both contracts and they have been on the table since the summer,” Robinson said.
“I am desperate to get at least one guaranteed to be here for next season. Negotiations are ongoing.
“They both know what I think of them. It’s frustrating for the one who is not playing, I totally understand that. I have been a player and I am not surprised that either would be linked with other clubs because they are top, top goalkeepers.”
Gillespie has impressed since replacing Carson between the sticks and the former Carlisle United and Walsall star has made the number one position his own in recent months.
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Losing one of the two would be a blow for the Steelmen but losing both would be absolutely massive and leave Robinson scrambling to find a suitable replacement.
Gillespie will almost certainly start tomorrow’s Lanarkshire derby with Hamilton and the Motherwell boss will be hoping that it isn’t the beginning of the end for either keeper’s Fir Park career.