CANED OR ABLE: We mark the Premiership

GARY CLARK fired 72 goals in 278 appearances during two spells at Hamilton where he established himself as a fans’ favourite.

The former midfielder – who also had a spell as Accies commercial manager – insists the current side should be satisfied with a season that required a late winner against Dundee United in the play-offs to survive the drop.

He said: “Hamilton punched above their weight once again when you look at the size of support they have and their wage structure.

“A few months ago I did a question and answer session alongside Michael Devlin and fans are coming up to me and talking about what a great side I was part of in the 1990s and saying it was better than the current side.

“I told them I was at Accies for 10 years and never played in the Premiership and the fans need to realise they are blessed at the moment as they’re getting to watch top-flight football every week.

“If Hamilton went down to the Championship and started winning again then the crowds would go up but for the club they need the profile of the Premiership.

“The bottom line is it’s been a successful season for Accies. They handled the pressure of the play-offs by beating Dundee United.

“The professional in you wouldn’t want to be there but you need to realistic.

“The expectations of the club need to be set with a bit of common sense. A few seasons ago they sat top of the league for a short spell under Alex Neil but the reality is if they stay in the top flight they should be delighted.

“They drew a load league games they could and maybe should have won and that’s failed to get them out of trouble.”