Motherwell chief in 'head hurts' puzzler over Euro permutations

Motherwell fans could face further confusion over the dates of their Europa Conference League second qualifying round.

Chief executive Alan Burrows admitted that his 'head hurts' over the various possible permutations.

The Fir Park club are laying down a new pitch and asked UEFA and both clubs if they could switch the ties so that the second leg is in Motherwell on July 28, which was turned down.

But there are circumstances and scenarios that could still see the date of the second leg moved, or the tie switched.

Welsh side Bala Town and Sligo Rovers from Ireland are slugging it out in the first qualifying round to see who then faces Motherwell.

If Bala win through, and fellow Welsh side Newton also reach the second qualifying round, while The New Saints get into the second qualifying round of the Champions League, the second-leg would be on Tuesday, July 26.

Should Bala and Newton both reach the second qualifying round, but TNS drop into the Europa Conference League second qualifying round, then the tie will be reversed.

That means the first leg would be on July 21, with the second leg at Fir Park on Tuesday, July 26, and Bala Town have confirmed that their 'home' match will be at Park Hall stadium in Shropshire.

If Sligo Rovers win through, the second leg of the game is on Thursday, July 28, as planned.

Motherwell's opponents will be confirmed on July 14, after the first qualifying round matches are played.

In a social media post, Burrows said: "My head hurts with this, but for anyone who is taking the risk of booking a trip to Wales, please be aware of this."

Several fans have already made plans to travel to either Ireland or Wales, depending on the outcome, to take advantage of cheap flights and/or refundable