Competition for Fulton is the aim for boss
Hamilton boss Brian Rice is looking to recruit another goalkeeper to battle with Ryan Fulton ahead of Saturday’s clash with Ross County.
Fulton impressed on his return from injury against Celtic at the weekend despite the 5-1 defeat.
However, the gaffer is keen to bring in competition for the shotstopper.
Last week, ‘keeper Matthew Gould, son of Celtic hero Jonathan Gould, joined the club on trial.
Rice says the onus will be on the Englishman to keep the number one jersey should he add his seventh summer recruit.
“We’ve got Ryan, we have Kyle Gourlay and young Jamie Smith. It’s an area we still need another one in,” he told the Advertiser.
“Jamie is young and just isn’t ready yet.
“Ryan showed against Celtic he has the potential to be a very good goalkeeper.
“Last year was really unfortunate for the boy when he missed the full season, but he has got himself fit and got the number one jersey, and he has got the potential.
“It’s up to Ryan to kick on and keep that jersey.”
As well as looking to add, Rice has kept two key men as defender
Shaun Want and midfielder Scott Martin signed two-year extensions to stay at New Douglas Park.
Delighted Rice said: “Eighteen months ago Shaun Want was a bit-part player and had been like that for a few seasons.
“He knuckled down and listened. He has taken on board what we are asking of him and he’s been great for me.
“The way he trains, the way he conducts himself, is brilliant. He just wants to be the best he can be.
“Scott Martin is everything you want at your club. He has enthusiasm and a will to win.
“He has a never give up attitude, and he brings a lot of the party.
“First and foremost, the two lads deserve it, they have worked really hard to get into the team and stay in the team.”
Accies will now look to earn their first win of the season as they welcome the Staggies to Lanarkshire.
“I don’t think many people expected us to be going into the Ross County game with three points,” continued Rice. “We had the hardest game in Scotland last weekend.
“We need to try and make our home form the best we can and make it difficult for our opponents. Ross County score goals and concede goals, so it will be an open game.”