Jens Berthel Askou believes Motherwell will learn exactly where they stand over the festive period as they prepare to face Rangers this weekend, insisting his side’s resilience, mentality and defensive structure will be tested to the limit after grinding out another hard-fought victory.
Motherwell’s 1–0 home win over Dundee continued an impressive run that has seen Askou’s side lose just twice in 18 league matches and record six consecutive clean sheets.
While the performance itself was not flawless, the Dane was far more interested in what the result said about his group ahead of a daunting run of fixtures that includes Rangers and Celtic in quick succession.
Reflecting on the Dundee win, Askou admitted conditions and recent attacking fluency made it a challenge, but felt the collective mindset carried his team through.
“They all have been hard-fought,” he said.
“We know we really need to push hard to get the ball over the line at the moment. The pitches are getting a little bit more wintry and when we play fast and one-touch in small areas, the success rate is not always as high.”
Despite that, Askou highlighted the strength of character within his squad, something he believes will be crucial against Rangers at Ibrox.
“The positivity, the optimism, the body language, the encouragement within the squad to keep going has been really strong,” he added.
“Plus, a fantastic defensive mentality and good structure - that’s why we got the ball over the line.”
That defensive resolve will be central against a Rangers side under mounting pressure.
Rangers currently sit fourth in the table, behind the Steelmen on goal difference, and are chasing consistency after recent setbacks, but Askou is under no illusions about the quality they possess.
“We will feel where we are when we face Rangers and Celtic over the next 10 days,” he said.
“The programme ahead is tough.”
Askou believes Motherwell’s early-season frustrations - where performances did not always translate into wins - have helped shape the mentality required for such tests.
“We addressed that at the beginning of the season,” he explained.
“There was frustration sneaking in after drawing games we felt we could have won.
“That’s where training has been about building optimism when mistakes happen.”
That approach, he feels, will be vital against Rangers, a team capable of punishing even brief lapses.
“When you play attacking football and have possession, you will make mistakes,” Askou said.
“You give the ball away in good positions.
“But you have to be ready to take the next moment with a positive mindset.”
While the statistics surrounding Motherwell’s season are eye-catching, Askou was keen to downplay talk of reflection or satisfaction. His focus is firmly forward.
“We are in a good place,” he said.
“But what matters is how we respond in the next games.”
For Motherwell, Saturday’s trip to face Rangers represents more than just another fixture. It is a chance to measure progress against one of the league’s biggest clubs, and to test whether their defensive steel, patience and belief can withstand the intensity of Ibrox.