Airdrie vs Hamilton preview - Neil back after ban

Hamilton welcome back influential skipper Alex Neil after a three-match league ban as they look for the win that will send Airdrie deeper into relegation trouble.

The New Douglas Park side also have Jon McShane and Kieran Millar available after lengthy spells out with knee injuries to give manager Billy Reid a full-strength squad to choose from for the first time this season.

Reid said: "I have said all season that having Alex on the park improves us a team so I pleased to have him available for Airdrie.

"We've had two good wins over Airdrie this season and if we play like we can we will make that three. A success would take us closer to the top half of the table."

Bottom club Airdrie have added goalkeeper Robbie Thomson to their squad on a loan deal from Celtic and the teenager looks set to take his place against Accies.

Manager Jimmy Boyle is also hoping to bring in a further loan player ahead of kick-off, with Dundee United striker Jordan Moore believed to be the target.

Missing for Boyle's side are Rickie Lamie and Marc Warren following their red cards against Morton last week while Alan Cook is again missing due to an ankle problem.

Boyle said: "A win would pull us to within three points of Hamilton and as we are entering a crucial stage of the season I want us to be going into it boosted by a win in a derby encounter."