Ross County defender joins Hamilton as Accies pip Partick Thistle and Dunfermline to signing

Hamilton Accies have completed the signing of Ross County defender Ricki Lamie on loan until the end of the season.

And Lanarkshire Live Sport understands John Rankin's side managed to fend off competition from Championship rivals Partick Thistle and Dunfermline to secure his services.

The former Motherwell man has endured a frustrating time in the Highlands with injury and illness limiting his game time with the Staggies.

The 31-year-old centre-back made three appearances in July in the League Cup and hasn't kicked a ball in competitive action since, so he will be hoping to pick up regular minutes with the New Douglas Park outfit as they chase the promotion spots in the second tier.

He has chosen South Lanarkshire after Dunfermline and Partick also showed a keen interest in recruiting him. Lamie joins on loan until June 14 and still has 17 months left on his deal with the Dingwall club.

Lamie, who hails from Shotts, said: "Once I spoke to the manager it was a no brainer really. He sold the club well and the team speaks for itself with plenty of quality, I'm just looking to come in and add to that.

"I'm feeling really good after the injury. It was a good session today with the rest of the boys, meeting everyone and I'm just looking forward to the weekend."

On his latest signing, Rankin said: "I'm very pleased to have Ricki join the side on the loan until the end of the season. We've had some injury issues in defence so to be able to get someone with his experience in is a massive boost.

"He's a strong, competitive figure that will bring a new voice to the dressing room. He knows what it takes to compete in this league and I'm delighted to have him."

Lamie - who has followed fellow ex-Steelmen Oli Shaw, Stuart McKinstry and