sport news

Hamilton Academical captain Alex Neil will have to wait for his first appearance of the season ahead of Saturday's Lanarkshire derby.

Neil's bid to build up his match fitness was stymied when a bounce game against Dundee United was postponed because of bad weather in the week.

Derek Lyle and James Gibson both remain sidelined with knee problems as the Accies look to build on their 2-0 victory in Paisley last time out.

Motherwell left-back Stevie Hammell, who has had to miss the last three SPL games, will again be absent for the short trip to New Douglas Park.

The 27-year-old has been unable to shake off a niggling hamstring strain and is targeting the visit of Aberdeen after the international break on November 21 for his return.

Paul Slane (calf), who has been missing since August, is still missing but otherwise 'Well have no fresh injuries.