Nigel Hasselbaink is wary of former club

Nigel Hasselbaink has warned his St Mirren team-mates not to be fooled by his former club Hamilton’s lowly league position when they meet in the William Hill Scottish Cup.

Hasselbaink knows more about Hamilton than most of the Saints players, having played there last season as Accies were beaten to top-flight survival by the Paisley side. Hamilton have since failed to mount an anticipated title bid and were only three points off the bottom of the Irn-Bru First Division before their victory over Queen of the South on Monday. But they have maintained a good squad with the likes of Dougie Imrie, Simon Mensing, Alex Neil and Tomas Cerny still there, although the latter pair face fitness tests.

And Billy Reid’s men have picked up some good results this season including a 5-1 win over league leaders Ross County.

Hasselbaink said: “I was thinking they would do well. They have a good squad to stay at the top of the First Division. I don’t know what has happened there but they have a good squad for this game.”

Hasselbaink, 21, spent one season at Accies after arriving from PSV Eindhoven. The forward said: “My agent got me there and Billy Reid wanted to sign me. I knew some clubs like Hearts, Glasgow Rangers and Celtic but I didn’t know Hamilton and the other clubs. It has been difficult, in Holland we play another style than here. But I’m a young player and I need to learn both.

“I was happy there. I thought I did well but we got relegated. I’m now playing for St Mirren. I’m playing in the SPL, every player has the ambition to play in the highest league they can. I’m happy here with St Mirren. There is great ability here and it’s a family club.”

The Dutchman is now looking to atone for St Mirren’s home defeat by Ayr in the quarter-finals of the Scottish Communities League Cup. “We need to give the fans something back and win on Saturday.” he said.