Motherwell "actually have a plan" under Steven Hammell, says Joe Efford as he relishes run in side

Joe Efford reckons he has been given the freedom to thrive at Motherwell under new boss Steven Hammell because the Steelmen "actually have a plan."

The American striker was signed by former gaffer Graham Alexander in January from Belgian side Wassland-Beveren, netting three times in 16 appearances last season.

But ahead of tomorrow's clash with Premiership Hearts, Efford feels he has a lot more confidence this term amid a more expansive style of play at Fir Park.

The 26-year-old has made nine appearances so far this season, starting the Steelmen's last two games, and he is loving life under his new gaffer.

Asked what he is enjoying most about Hammell's style of play, he said: "I think we actually have a plan.

"For me personally, I am playing a bit wider and I have my options. Either to play back to the full back or I have the 10 coming inside, or I can take players on one-on-one.

"I have decisions and options and I think that is the best part.

"I'm feeling a lot more positive and I have a lot more confidence.

"It's like, I know what I'm doing.

"When I go into a game I know I have three options and I can execute those things."

Since Hammell took the reins, Motherwell have seen an upturn in results from the Sligo Rovers debacle in the Europa Conference League and, more importantly, an upturn in performances.

They have four wins, one draw and three defeats under Hammell and are joint-third in the table, level on points with Hearts and Aberdeen.

Efford added: "We are feeling really positive and I think the results are really showing that.

"There's a really positive environment there with the new gaffer.

"The guys are really on board with what he is trying to do and they are taking to that quickly so with all the positivity,