Keatings returns to Hamilton as Accies bring in four
PATIENCE paid off for Hamilton manager Martin Canning as he made four deadline-day signings, including James Keatings.
Former Hearts and Hibernian striker Keatings has returned to the club after they paid an undisclosed fee to Dundee United.
Accies also signed 21-year-old midfielder Scott Martin from Hibernian, experienced English defender Matthew Kilgallon and Fredrik Brustad, a 29-year-old striker who arrives on loan from Molde.
Keatings helped Accies to promotion in 2014, netting 18 goals, and Canning was delighted to secure his return.
“We know what we’re getting with Keatsy -– he’s got great quality on the ball and he’s a fantastic finisher,” the Hamilton boss told his club’s website.
“He’s had a frustrating time with injury but he’s back fit and raring to go.”
Brustad, a 6ft 3in frontman, has played 20 times for Molde this year but joins Hamilton for the season.
Canning said: “Fredrik is an excellent addition to the squad. He’s played for top clubs in Sweden and Norway, has been capped by his country and adds height and yet more pace to our frontline.”
Kilgallon was Bradford’s player of the year last season and the 34-year-old also counts Leeds, Sheffield United, Sunderland and Blackburn among his former clubs.
Canning said: “Matt brings significant quality, experience and leadership having played at the highest level. His performances last year and his desire to come up here show he’s still got a lot to give.”