Celtic hero Gary Hooper turns down Scotland return after Hamilton Accies fail in signing bid

Hamilton Accies have failed in an audacious bid to bring former Celtic striker Gary Hooper back to Scotland.

The English striker won four trophies in a three-year spell with the Hoops, scoring 63 goals in 95 appearances, and even at 35-years-old would have been a huge asset to Accies in their bid to pip Falkirk to the League One title this season.

Hooper was signed by Neil Lennon from Scunthorpe United in 2010 and helped the Hoops win two Scottish Premiership titles and two Scottish Cups before going on to enjoy spells at Norwich City and Sheffield Wednesday.

Lennon also signed him for Cypriot side Omonoia Nicosia in 2022 and Hooper is currently back in England at National League outfit Barent, where he has made 10 appearances since joining in October.

However, Accies revealed their attempts to pull off a sensational return north of the border did not materialise.

Accies director of football Gerry Strain explained: "We made an inquiry about Gary last month after becoming aware he could be about to be available, but it isn't going to work out.

"Through my relationship with Neil Lennon - who signed Gary for Celtic and Omonoia Nicosia - I spoke to Gary about the possibility and he was very straightforward with us.

"It is unfortunate, but he is one of a number of players we have looked into in recent weeks and although Gary won't be coming to Hamilton, we are hopeful that there will be some new signings being announced soon.

"We are working hard and the club has been consulting with a number of high-profile people in the game to help us improve the squad."

With the January transfer window now in full swing, it is understood the club are close to agreeing a deal for midfielder Ben Williamson from Rangers, after his loan deal