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Daily Record
Sport
Ben Banks

Hamilton boss anticipating Accies debuts at Inverness as starlets set to seize chance

Hamilton head coach Stuart Taylor is expecting to hand more senior debuts to some of his academy starlets away at Inverness on Friday night.

A lengthy trip north will bring an end to Accies' Championship season, currently sitting sixth in the table.

Last week brought a 2-0 defeat against Raith Rovers with injuries plaguing Taylor's plans for the match.

16-year-old Sam Nicolson was handed his debut in the loss while Cian Newbury sat on the bench. Others like teenager Adam McGowan have made a handful of appearances already this term.

Hamilton's head coach says it will always be part of his model to try and hand those in the club's academy a chance in his first team.

The 47-year-old said: "I think we'll potentially see a few debuts which is great. We might need to look at doing that for Friday night.

"I brought about six or seven players from the 16s and 18s into the squad in my second week. I have always tried to include them across the football club, and in sessions.

"A couple have been on the bench and there are some kids who are 15, so can't be involved in the first-team yet.

"I'll always look to go into the academy and bring players through. I am a big believer in that. The academy is really important for me, as are younger players.

"They give you energy and enthusiasm. They are so open to new information."

Accies boss Stuart Taylor will be looking for three points to take Accies closer to Raith Rovers in fifth (SNS Group)

While believing they can contribute to his Hamilton side when called upon, Taylor knows that some experience to go alongside them is vital.

A blend between that component and an eagerness to do well could be the perfect formula for youth success.

He added: "I don't want to put pressure on them but I believe they are good enough. There has to be the experience to help them as when they cross the white line, it's up to them.

"Sometimes they don't hear instructions from the side as they are that focused in their own game. Having experienced players to help them on the pitch is important.

"They are desperate to do well. It's a freshness in football that can sometimes get caught up in that demand to be winning games.

"We had four on the bench against Raith Rovers. Big Sam came on for his debut then and there could be a few more to follow."

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