Falkirk secured the services of Brian McLean from Motherwell on a two-year deal today (Wednesday).

The 24-year-old former Rangers youth player joined the Steelmen on loan for season 2005-06 and won a permanent deal one year later.

However, the 6' 2" defender was snapped up on a free contract by May this week, despite speculation that Hearts were eyeing up a move.

McLean made almost 60 appearances for the Fir Park side but spent a long time on the sidelines after suffering a cruciate knee ligament injury, and fracture of the knee cap, during Motherwell's pre-season clash with Romanian outfit CFR Cluj in July 2008.

However, he fought back to fitness and returned for Well in a 2-1 win over Inverness in March 2009.

McLean is the first player to be brought in by the new management team, and May told Heraldsport: "I'm delighted to have signed Brian on a two-year deal. He will give a real assurance to the back four.

"He is a confident player who I am sure will develop and improve further at Falkirk."

Read more in this week's Falkirk Herald.