McArthur has attracted the attention of several clubs in England

Hamilton Accies' James McArthur looks likely to remain at New Douglas Park until the summer at least after the club rejected a bid by West Brom.

An Accies statement said: "We have rejected a written offer from West Brom for the transfer of James McArthur based on an initial loan agreement.

"To date, theirs is the only written offer received but we have had verbal interest noted by two English clubs.

"We will not stand in the way of any of our players moving to a higher level."

McArthur saw team-mates Brian Easton and James McCarthy seal moves to Premier League sides Burnley and Wigan last year and is expected to follow them south if a suitable offer is presented to Accies manager Billy Reid.

Earlier this month the 22-year-old midfielder told BBC Scotland: "I want to play in England at the highest level I can, and do the best for myself and my family."

The statement, issued by the Lanarkshire club after their goalless draw against Kilmarnock in the Scottish Premier League, continued: "James has been a tremendous asset to our clubs and when he eventually leaves to further his career it will be with our best wishes."

Hamilton assistant boss Stuart Taylor believes the Accies players will get a massive boost from the news that McArthur is staying for now.

Taylor said: "It is fantastic that James is still at this club.

"He is a massive player for us and I'm sure the players will get a massive lift.

"Having him next to them in training and in games is huge and it's a big boost for this club."

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