Dougie back at Fir Park - as bar boss!

Jun 17 2009 by Andrew Weston, Wishaw Press

MOTHERWELL FC players may not be checking back in for pre-season training until Monday but one former Fir Park legend has been busy preparing for the new season since June 1 after he was snapped up for the second time by the club.

Scottish Cup winner Dougie Arnott will be pulling the pints at Fir Park after taking up the position of Bars Manager.

Since retiring from football in 1998, the diminutive former striker has channelled all his energy into the bar and hospitality industry, having purchased the Wee Thackit Inn, Carluke.

His vast experience in such a business, tailored with his obvious affection for Motherwell FC, made his return ideal.

“I am thoroughly enjoying it,” Arnott said this week.

“There are a lot of staff around Fir Park that were here when I was playing and it is good to be back at the club.

“I’m looking forward to it and it’s a good challenge for me.”

In the close season, income generated by off-field activities is important for all football clubs.

And given the perilous state of Scottish football’s financial affairs as a result of the ongoing saga surrounding Irish broadcaster Setanta, this source of income is even more vital.

Already, Arnott has been trying to make a difference, putting his own touches to private function suites at Fir Park in preparation for various weddings, 21st and 40th birthday parties that will take place in the club’s Centenary and Cooper function areas this summer.

Arnott added: “I have been in the pub game nearly 15 years now, long enough to know what’s needed.

“Hopefully, we will get these running well and we get more guests outwith football coming down and enjoying themselves.

“During matchdays, I’m also hoping the place will be really busy and I can experience good times again at Fir Park.”

The ‘Hammer of the Old Firm’ – as he was affectionately known by Motherwell supporters as well as Rangers and Celtic fans during his 12-season spell at the club – is not the only former ’Well favourite showing face around Fir Park these days.

‘Super sub’ Stevie Kirk has been brought back to work during matchdays too, something that has delighted Arnott.

He said: “When you finish playing football, very rarely do you see your former teammates.

“I spent about 12 years here with Kirkie and then you go away and just lose touch.

“Stevie thoroughly enjoys being back at the club as well.”

He continued: “I’m also involved with a former players club, which is enjoyable.

“At the end of last season, I was bringing players like Brian Martin, Tommy Coyne and Rab McKinnon back to the club, guys that played with me in the 90s. It is just great seeing all the old faces again.”