Hamilton agree to sell THREE top young stars to English big guns – in echo of James McCarthy and James McArthur exit
HAMILTON ACCIES have agreed deals to cash in on two of their most talented young players to English big guns - with a third to follow - after their relegation to League 1.
The Accies have a great tradition of developing young players and were crowned Under-16 and Under-18 champions in the top tier of the Club Academy Scotland in the season just past as they booked their spot in the Uefa Youth League.
And now they've decided it's time to cash in on their young talents - with Scotland national teams duo Gabe Forsyth off to join Norwich City and Under-16 winger Josh McDonald joining Leeds.
Further more, young striker Ryan One has been subject to an approach from Brighton.
And while the South Coast club's initial approach has been rebuffed, chairman Allan Maitland says the expectation is that he will eventually be sold too.
It's a triple deal the Accies chief feels is reminiscent of the departures of James McCarthy, James McArthur and Brian Easton - with add-ons set to secure the future of the club in years to come.
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A statement read: "As you may be aware, our Under 18 and 16’s Academy teams were League Champions in their respective national leagues.
"A further measure of their success is our qualification yet again, for next season’s Champions League.
"It is another great indication of the exceptional efforts by George Cairns and all of his staff, as our players have had International recognition and unprecedented interest from other Clubs.
"As a result I would confirm that I have this week reached final agreements with Norwich and Leeds Utd for the formal transfer of Gabriel Forsyth and Josh McDonald retrospectively.
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"In addition, I have rejected a formal offer from Brighton F.C. for Ryan One with the expectation that an agreement will eventually be reached.
"This sale resonates with our first prominent graduates James McCarthy, Brian Easton and James McArthur who are the only trio to ever be transferred from any Youth Academy to the English Premier League.
"As ever, the agreements contain substantial “add on’s” that have benefitted the Club so much in the past and will continue to do so (Lewis Ferguson, Scott McMann, Greg Docherty etc).
"In this regard, I’m delighted for the guidance of Ronnie MacDonald (Academy President) for his contacts, financial expertise and experience.
"The new owner has opted for the creation of the position of Director of Football who will, quite rightly, recruit and sell players.
"Giving these three boys an opportunity to progress is a terrific way of marking the change in procedure.
"In conclusion, I and all at the Club wish our departing players every success. Allan Maitland."
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