Scottish League One promotion contenders Hamilton Accies have failed in an audacious bid to sign former Celtic striker Gary Hooper.
The 35-year-old English marksman won four trophies during a three-year spell and confessed earlier this season after playing in the Scottish Masters tournament that he would be open to moving back up to Scotland if the right opportunity became available.
Signed by Neil Lennon from Scunthorpe United in 2010 for around £2.5million, Hooper clinched two league titles and two Scottish Cups with the Hoops before embarking on spells at Norwich City and Sheffield United.
He opted for a return to the UK with English non-league side Barnet in October, scoring two goals in 10 appearances this season. And Hamilton director of football Gerry Strain has confirmed the forward won’t be heading to South Lanarkshire this months after holding talks with club officials.
Strain told Lanarkshire Live Sport: “We made an inquiry about Gary last month after becoming aware he could be about to be available but it isn’t going to work out. Through my relationship with Neil Lennon, I spoke to Gary about the possibility and he was very straightforward with us.
Accies have, however, moved quickly to snap up Rangers midfielder Ben Williamson on an 18-month contract following his release from Ibrox on Thursday.
The 22-year-old – a product of the Gers youth system – spent the first half of the season on loan at Championship side Partick Thistle and brings valuable experience to John Rankin’s squad, having previously had loan spells at Arbroath, Livingston, Raith Rovers and Dundee.
A statement from the Light Blues read: “Rangers can confirm the permanent transfer of Ben Williamson to Hamilton Academical. Everyone at Rangers wishes Ben the best for his future career.
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