Hamilton Accies boss insists no Scott Martin fall-out as Partick Thistle swoop for captain
Hamilton Accies boss John Rankin insists there has been no fall-out after captain Scott Martin moved to Partick Thistle on a deadline day transfer.
The Advertiser revealed online that former Hibs midfielder Martin was set to severe a seven-year spell at Accies to join the Maryhill club and he has now signed on an 18-month deal, with the option of a further year.
Midfielder Scott Robinson moved in the opposite direction, also on an 18-month deal.
There had been rumours of a dressing room spat between Martin and Rankin, but the Accies boss said: “When you lose your captain it’s always a big question of ‘did outside things go on’ but there’s nothing.
“Scotty had been at the club for a long time, and sometimes people need a fresh start and a new outlook.
“I’ve got nothing but praise for Scotty and the way he conducted himself at the club. He was part of the two biggest highlights of my managerial career, winning the SPFL Trust Trophy and getting promotion up in Inverness last season.
“I’ve been here for well over 100 games now, and Scotty was always a starter whenever he was available.
“I’ve got nothing but respect for the guy, I’ll keep in touch with him throughout the rest of his career, and I wish him all the best.”
In a statement issued to fans, Martin, 27, said: “I want to place on record my thanks to Hamilton Accies for my time at the club.
READ MORE: Hamilton Accies fans blast club after Scott Martin sale to Partick Thistle amid relegation dogfight
“When I joined I was only 21, and to have spent almost eight years here has made this club a massive part of my life and one I am honoured to have played for and captained.
“I want to thank the fans for being so welcoming and supportive of me over the years. It’s not always been easy, but the support has always been amazing for me.
“To captain this team has been an honour and I have had so many great memories.
“To have been part of the clubs first cup winning team in almost 30 years, winning promotion up at Inverness and some amazing results over the years are memories I will never forget.
“I want to thank all the staff, players and coaches over the years that have helped make my time here so great, and I want to wish everyone all the best for the remainder of the season and going forward.”
On signing ex-Livingston star Robinson, Rankin said: “I’m delighted to bring in someone with Scott Robinson’s quality and experience, and he will come here with a wealth of experience and a huner to kick on.
“Scott has just turned 32, and he’s got a lot of years ahead of him, with the way he lives his life.
“It gives the squad a boost, he’s a different type of player, he has a lot of leadership qualities, knows how to set standards and has a really good energy about him.
“He’s infectious the way he plays and trains, so we need guys like that. I’ve known and played against him for a number of years now, and he’s at a stage in his career where he can help younger guys.”
