Mark joins our elite club

Jul 6 2008 By Scott Mcdermott

MOTHERWELL star Mark Reynolds is the first Fir Park player to be named Sunday Mail Starcheck winner and takes his place in illustrious company.

The 21-year-old defender collected the silver salver last week after another terrific season for the Steelmen.

MailSport's prize is one of the most popular in Scottish football - as shown by the glittering roll of honour below - and rewards the player who has been most consistent over a campaign.

Reynolds was an ever-present for Mark McGhee's side as they secured third place in the SPL and a UEFA Cup spot.

His form prompted a £1million summer bid by Rangers thatwas turned down by the Lanarkshire club. Despite Well boasting legends like Dougie Arnott and Davie Cooper, Mark is the first ever claret and amber winner of our coveted prize.

He follows in the footsteps of Scottish football icons such as Willie Miller, Terry Butcher, Brian Laudrup and Henrik Larsson.

Reynolds is also the second successive Scotland Under-21 player to receive the trophy after Steven Naismith last year.

He said: "This is an incredible honour especially when I look at the talent of previous winners.

"Just to see my name alongside Laudrup and Larsson as well as great defenders like Miller and Butcher is unbelievable.

"I'd like to dedicate it to my family and everyone at the club who have helped me develop over the last few years and hopefully I can continue my form next season.

"There are some great players on that list and it feels special to be the first from Motherwell to win it.

"The Sunday Mail Starcheck award is a great prize to win because it shows you have played well all season."