Stuart McCall (left) watched his new team lose to Celtic

Motherwell interim manager Gordon Young was pleased his players gave a good account of themselves against Celtic in front of their new permanent boss.

Well went down 1-0 in Glasgow with Stuart McCall watching from the stand ahead of his expected appointment.

"It'll be pleasing for the new manager," Young told BBC Scotland.

"He came into the dressing room after the game and I'm glad a lot of them have done themselves no harm by putting on that second-half performance."

After an indifferent first half, Motherwell improved after the break and pressed unsuccessfully for a late leveller after Celtic had Scott Brown sent off.

"Close but no cigar," said Young.

"I'm so proud of the players, I thought they were excellent in the second half.

"In the first half we looked as if we needed a bit more belief and at half-time I charged them with proving that they were good players and I thought they answered that call.

"I made a statement in the dressing room before the game saying that we've gone through a blip and they've got to put a marker down now and say that the Motherwell of old are back and I think they've answered that, Motherwell are back.

"He (Stuart McCall) was pleased with what he saw in the second half, it gives him great confidence. He reiterated my points about us just having a bit more belief and retention of the ball so I think we'll be singing off the same hymn sheet."

I've thoroughly enjoyed the experience Gordon Young on being caretaker manager

Young was put in caretaker charge following the departure of Craig Brown and will now return to his existing role of youth development manager.

"It's been a pleasure, it's been exciting, I've enjoyed every minute of it and it's given me something to think about," added Young.

"I've thoroughly enjoyed the experience.

"I'd like to comment on the players' professionalism and how they've worked under me, I think they've been a credit to themselves, their family and the club."

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