Euro kids prove club’s future is bright

Dougie Imrie last night revealed his pride at the emergence of the kids’ team he coached last year into the European arena.

The Accies youngsters earned their place in the UEFA Youth League with an unbeaten 24-game season.

And this week they’ll attempt to make history as they bring Swiss side FC Basle back to the Hope CBD Stadium on Wednesday night with a 2-2 draw in the bag from the first leg. Imrie said: “It was magic working with the Under-17s last year.

“To take these young players into Europe is something that will stay with me forever.

“It’s a massive achievement for this club and a reward for everything they’ve put into their academy.

“Last week they went to Basel and got a creditable 2-2 draw with a team that got to the last 16 of the competition last year. “It ’s all to play for on Wednesday and it’s an unbelievable time for the club with European football coming to Hamilton for the first time.

“Hopefully a lot of folk will turn out to watch, give the players a boost and maybe we will get something from the tie.”

New Project Brave rules mean Imrie has had to step back from his role with the team while still a player.

But he insists he and the rest of the first team will be there roaring the kids on.

He said: “I’m a bit disappointed I’m not allowed to do both roles any more but the guys who are with

the team now will do a fantastic job. I’m sure a lot of the first team will be there on Wednesday to watch as it has been an unbelievable journey so far and one that’s unlikely to be repeated.

“To go through a whole season undefeated in a league that includes Rangers, Celtic, Hibs and Aberdeen – who have a much bigger budget than what we have – that will be hard to repeat.

“The work has been incredible from the chairman, the directors and George Cairns.

“It’s not just last season. Some of these kids have been here since they were nine years old and have been brought through to this level which is remarkable.”