Motherwell fitness update as bug causing 'havoc' ahead of pivotal Hearts clash

Motherwell manager Graham Alexander says he will aim to pick the fittest team he can amid a sickness bug within his squad.

Despite poorly players travelling separately to Saturday's Premiership game at Ross County, the Steelmen still prevailed 1-0 thanks to a Kevin van Veen penalty.

The Dutchman and some others weren't fit to start and Alexander will hope for similar mettle at Fir Park on Wednesday against Hearts.

Sitting fifth and two points clear of County a place below, victory for 'Well and a Staggies loss at Rangers would seal Europa Conference League football next season ahead of a final day trip to Celtic.

It's a big incentive for the club but Alexander admits there are some sickness concerns ahead of the match.

He said: "There's a couple lads who have come back but a couple more have caught the bug since the weekend. There's a bit of it going around.

"We'll see how we are. We will try and get the fittest team we can as we are going to need all of our energy on the pitch.

"The players mentally are in a good place. There is a lot to play for after a fantastic result at the weekend, but the bug is causing a bit of havoc."

A broken down bus and sickness couldn't stop Motherwell from marching to victory in the Highlands, and Alexander was pleased by the spirit shown.

He believes camaraderie was the base for success, as they have that quality in abundance.

The former Scotland international added: "Four of the lads had to travel separate as we wanted to keep them separated from the main coach.

"We didn't want it spreading around. Our bus broke down on Friday too so we had to wait for a replacement too. So the preparation a few days before it wasn't ideal.

"The players responded brilliantly and we had a real camaraderie