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Daily Record
Daily Record
Sport
Euan Robertson

Hamilton Accies boss Rice praises Aaron Martin's commitment through adversity

Hamilton boss Brian Rice has praised Aaron Martin for his commitment to Accies this season.

The 31 year-old moved away from his young family in Southampton to travel north to sign for Hamilton in November.

Due to coronavirus restrictions, Martin has been limited in visiting his loved ones in England and Rice believes the former Birmingham defender has shown exemplary dedication.

Aaron Martin during the 2-1 defeat to Livingston last weekend (SNS Group)

He said: "Aaron's been a fantastic signing for us. I've spoke quite a lot about what he brings to the team, the club and how he conducts himself.

"You've got to remember that he's left a young family and his partner way down south. He's came all the way up here and he's living on his own at the minute.

"He's shown a great deal of commitment to the club and I know he's enjoyed it. He's been a massive part of where we are just now."

"You've also got to remember that when he was up here for a period of time, he was staying in a hotel.

Aaron Martin contesting an aerial duel with Curtis Main (SNS Group)

"Hotels aren't like we normally know them where you can go down to the restaurant or bar area and socialise.

"He was just in and out of his room, training and not seeing much of his family. I think it says a great deal about him as a character."

It was revealed earlier this week that David Moyo would not be permitted to travel with the Zimbabwe on international duty.

The 26 year-old was set to be called up for Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers away to Botswana on March 25 and a home clash with Zambia on March 29.

Accies boss Rice with David Moyo (SNS Group)

However, due to restrictions for countries on the UK's red list for travel, Moyo would be required to quarantine for 11 days which was problematic for a Hamilton side facing an injury crisis in attacking areas.

Rice said: "I've not been part of it {the discussions}. I was asked my opinion by the club, I gave my opinion and the club dealt with it.

"David understands the situation about the quarantining, travelling and where we are numbers wise.

"Lee Hodson is on standby for the Northern Ireland as well and numbers wise we are really struggling. But that is no excuse, we have to be ready to go."

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