Reid pins hopes of defender recall

Billy Reid hopes Mark McLaughlin's return lifts Hamilton against St Mirren but admits he still doesn't know who his best strikers are.

McLaughlin has been given the go-ahead to make his Accies return after recovering from medial ligament damage and the central defender could play against the Buddies.

And Reid says the 32-year-old's presence will make a huge difference to his struggling backline.

He said: "Mark has had the all-clear and we want him back in the team. I think we have missed his size and presence. They are important in this league.

"He started the season brilliantly before unfortunately picking up this injury. He is a huge player for us. His determination to get back has been brilliant."

However, the boss admits he is still unsure of his best team and has serious doubts about the forward line in particular.

"We're trying different things and things are definitely starting to happen on the park. I'm still uncertain what my best team is, to be honest," he said.

"Up front, in particular, I'm not sure who my best players are yet so they are all getting a chance. Nobody is really sticking out yet.

"Richard Offiong has been injured, but he could be available against St Mirren. But he has to earn the right to play like everybody else."