CAPTAIN'S SLOG.

Byline: Neil Cameron 

HAMILTON skipper Alex Neil is probably the first footballer in history delighted to be handed a third dose of pre-season training in six months.

While the rest of his team-mates will be glad of a three-day break after boss Billy Reid upped their workload this week, Neil couldn't get enough of the extra graft.

The Accies gaffer felt the idea of a mini pre-season worked so well during the last international break that he made his players do it again and then one more time since summer.

Neil, who is almost ready to play his first game of this campaign following a hip operation in August, said: "I've been glad of the extra work the manager gave us. It's been such a frustrating time for me, the longest I've ever been out. I've averaged between 30 and 35 games for the past six seasons.

"I have a game against Hibs on Tuesday pencilled in and if I can get through that it's a big step forward for me.

"I have to make sure my fitness is good enough and that's why you won't hear me complaining about the manager getting us to do one more pre-season.

"My distance running has been no problem but I've felt pain in the turning and twisting you get in matches. Thankfully the pain seems to have gone.

"I've had a really good week, done a lot of hard work and feel a lot better about myself. I feel fit."

Now it won't be long until Neil is back with a Hamilton side he insists are on the march. He said: "A whole new bunch of lads have come in and it takes time to gel but I think we've got there.

"Our first game back after the break is against Falkirk which is massive for us. Then it's St Johnstone.

"We've done okay against the top teams and struggled a little against those around about us and that needs to change."

CAPTION(S):

START ALEX: Neil ready to play for Accies again