Craig Brown is relishing 'Well's tilt at the Europa League

Motherwell manager Craig Brown hopes a run in the Europa League will enable him to strengthen his squad.

'Well's European place was confirmed following Dundee United's Scottish Cup final victory over Ross County.

And Brown said he was relishing the prospect of leading his side into the second qualifying round on 15 July.

"I would like to think that, if we progressed a round or two in the Europa League, that would increase the budget," he told BBC Scotland.

Motherwell finished in fifth spot in the Scottish Premier League this season, but they secured a Europa League spot because third-placed United lifted the Scottish Cup.

And Brown is eyeing an extended run in Europe in the hope that it strengthens his hand in the transfer market.

To enable us to get players and put them on a wage depends on the Europa League Motherwell manager Craig Brown

"I talk to every manager in the SPL, or those that are left, and they all say 'the budget's been cut'," he said.

"Our budget is very, very low and I think it's similar to the other clubs."

While ruling out spending significant money on transfers during the summer, Brown said: "To enable us to get players and put them on a wage depends on the Europa League; it's a good incentive and will give us a good pre-season."

Brown said there was a "quiet satisfaction" at securing European football for the Steelmen and he admitted he was surprised to find himself back in club management.

"Of course, I'm not unfamiliar with Europe, because for 16 years that was my job and I'm delighted to be back in Europe at club level.

"I was happy doing some media work and felt that my time dealing with a team on the training ground and the dugout was over.

"But I was very grateful to Motherwell for giving me the opportunity; Archie Knox and I got the chance to come back again.

"And we've been very well supported by a group of players who are tremendously enthusiastic, the fans, and excellent co-operation from the chairman and everyone at Fir Park."

Hibernian will now enter the Europa League at the third qualifying round, while United start at the first round, which decides entry to the group stages.

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