League placing: 9th
Scottish Cup: sixth round
League Cup: quarter-finals

Ins: Marvin Andrews, defender; Izzy Iriekpen, defender; James Wesolowski, midfielder; David Louhoungou, midfielder; Marco Paixao, forward; Flavio Paixao, forward.

Outs: Chris Swailes, defender; Kenny Deuchar, forward; Rocco Quinn, midfielder; Derek Asamoah, forward; Stephen Ettien, forward; Brian Easton, defender; James McCarthy, midfielder; Joel Thomas, forward; Marc Corcoran, forward.

Billy Reid Hamilton manager

There have been big changes over the summer but we'll have a lot of new faces and a bit of freshness about us.

It's a different Accies side and I'm really looking forward to another season in the SPL.

I feel as if we are stronger at the back with Marvin Andrews, who is marvellous character, and Izzy Iriekpen coming in.

We still need to strengthen in other areas, particularly up front, but I'm confident we can add to the squad.

Alison Walker Sport reporter

Finishing ninth in the SPL last season was beyond expectations for Hamilton as staying up was the most important thing.

Billy Reid won manager of the month in January, but the momentum fell away towards the end of the season and, with James McCarthy and Brian Easton now gone, it could have an effect on the team.

However, the squad that are left behind have a year's experience in the SPL under their belt, which should stand them in good stead.

McCarthy was young player of the year and will be missed - but they've brought in experience with Marvin Andrews, who, despite his injuries concerns, is still a quality player and recently earned his 100th cap for Trinidad and Tobago against Mexico.

If he can play against a top-class international side, he can take on the likes of Falkirk and St Mirren. He'll be a good influence on younger players, both on and off the pitch.

There won't be many Scots in the side for the start of the season, but the Portuguese twins Marco and Flavio Paixao look like they could bring some variety and competition for places.

I think Hamilton look stronger this season and they know what to expect in the SPL. Finishing better than ninth would be the aim for Billy Reid and I would certainly expect them to stay up, especially with the retention of Tomas Cerny, who is one of the best goalkeepers in the country.

There are also a few youngsters knocking on the door that we should expect to see later in the season and Reid is looking to add a few more players before the end of August.

It would also be good for Hamilton to earn a run in the cup competitions, but SPL survival is the key.

Should be interesting. 'Second-season syndrome' is usually 'first-season syndrome' in Scotland, with promotion tending to end in instant relegation.

The team looks fit though and put up a good showing at the Spartans tournament. They seem to have decent depth in their squad. Quality may be an issue though.

MY SPORT: DEBATE How will Hamilton fare this term?

A few good signings could see them survive, but I can't really see them making any further progress unless something remarkable happens - still very much 'punching above their weight'.
Mod Face - Deluded For Bobby

Noticed they've made quite a few signings from Europe this summer as well as bringing big Marvin Andrews back to the SPL.

Think they might surprise a few people again this year.
jimmyjimjones

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