FORMER Celtic striker Chris Sutton insists that Graham Alexander's departure from Motherwell is 'knee-jerk nonsense' as the outspoken pundit hit out at the Fir Park board.

Alexander met with Steelmen chiefs on Friday afternoon to discuss his future in Lanarkshire, with the two parties agreeing to an exit by mutual consent - less than 24 hours after the Premiership side were knocked out of the Europa Conference League by Sligo Rovers.

Motherwell's form since the turn of the year has been poor - Alexander presided over five wins in 22 outings in 2022 as the team finished fifth in the league - but Sutton is adamant that the former Scotland internationlist can feel hard done by.

"This really stinks," Sutton wrote. "Knee-jerk nonsense.

"Graham Alexander did really well last season yet 2 poor results and he’s out… deary me Motherwell."

One user replied: "Come on Chris, their record since the new year is appalling, the late goal at Livi saved his job."

Sutton responded: "I think 5th place overall was pretty good…"

Another user challenged the Premier Sports pundit and said: "I disagree that it's knee jerk. They've been terrible for months, he was given enough time.

"I think Motherwell have acted quickly to avoid it being a very long year."

Sutton replied: "If he was that bad surely the best thing to do would be to part company at the end of last season.

"Good plan to let him bring players in then part company just before the first league game…"