‘Well duo David Ferguson and Dylan Mackin have joined Lanarkshire neighbours Airdrie on Development Loans until the end of the season.
Ferguson (19) played six times in the Motherwell first-team during the 2014/15 season and has spent the first half of the season on loan at Annan Athletic.
However, he has moved up a level to join Ed Wolecki Black’s side as they bid to gain promotion back to the Ladbrokes Championship.
It will be David’s third loan whilst at ‘Well, the versatile defender having also spent a short time at Ladbrokes Championship side Alloa Athletic.
Under 20s top scorer Mackin (18), who has hit 20 goals in the last 18 months for the Fir Park youngsters, will enjoy his first spell out on loan.
The 6ft 2-inch striker recently made his top-team debut, coming on as a late substitute in the 3-1 win over Dundee at Fir Park last month.
[pullquote]I firmly believe that youngsters playing competitive first-team football, in an environment where results really matter, is a huge benefit to them as they learn their trade.[/pullquote]
Both players are ‘Development Loans’ and therefore can still play, if required, for Stephen Craigan’s side between now and May.
They will join former ‘Well players Kevin McBride and Marc Fitzpatrick in the Diamonds’ squad.
‘Well boss Mark McGhee said: “I firmly believe that youngsters playing competitive first-team football, in an environment where results really matter, is a huge benefit to them as they learn their trade.
“Obviously, David has been out before and is aware of the benefits. He has moved from League Two up to League One, so that’ll be an notable jump in standard for him.
“Dylan is a striker who, much like Craig Moore, needs to be playing as often as possible. He’s scoring regular for the Under 20s and a spell in a team battling to get promoted will be so beneficial for him.
“We’ll continue to use the Development Loan system with a view to enhancing our young talent in preparation for a career in senior football.”