STEPHEN PEARSON is delighted Motherwell have managed to nail down Stephen Robinson as boss.

But he knows if he and his team-mates cross him it could be hammer time.

The new Well gaffer takes over in the dug out after stints as assistant at Fir Park to both Ian Baraclough and Mark McGhee.

During that period the Northern Irishman has proven himself to be a popular coach who, in during his recent two-week interim spell, has managed to get the best out of misfiring Motherwell.

Pearson hopes that will continue to be the case as they aim to stay on Robinson's good side, and he said: "He has that steely streak and you've got to have that.

"You can't be too nice or the players will dominate you a bit. He's certainly got that. We're all behind him and we're looking forward to Saturday.

"Ian Baraclough was a really nice guy, who wouldn't really hammer anyone. Robbo has that in him.

"Mark McGhee's more experienced, so he took a backwards step and concentrated on the managerial side of it. He let Robbo do a lot of the coaching.

"Now Robbo's got the opportunity and we're pleased about it. We're looking forward to working with him and improving the club's league position."

Getting Motherwell away from the 10th place they currently occupy is of course Robinson's priority, something which is not lost on the players, either.

A victory this afternoon at home to St Johnstone would not only boost morale of a team that has stuttered throughout the season, but potentially open up a seven-point gap over bottom markers Inverness and also move them six ahead of Hamilton Accies.

On top of that, it would claw the Steelmen closer to the safe haven that is the top six.

"We were fifth last year but we were in the play-offs the year before that and no-one wants to be in that position," added Pearson. "A couple of wins will see us push into the top six again. It's tight and all to play for.

"We had a while when we were down there last year and went on a great run. I don't see why we can't do that again. We've got a difficult game on Saturday but we'll give it our best shot.

"I think it helps that he [Robinson] knows the squad so well, because in our situation there's no time to waste. It's probably been a big factor in him getting the job.

"He's worked with us for a few weeks and has improved things. I think it bodes well if he can come in and get a reaction like that. Now it's time for us to work hard and kick on because we're in a precarious positions.

Turning to today's visit of St Johnstone, Pearson added: "St Johnstone have been relatively strong over the last few years and have a good squad of players who know each other and the league inside-out.

"They fight for each other and have quality as well. It's something we can look at and try to replicate."