Hamilton midfielder Marley Redfern says he is enjoying the steep learning curve of becoming a first-team regular at Accies.
The 18-year-old has played seven of the eight Championship matches for head coach Stuart Taylor’s side this season after a loan spell in the lower leagues with Blackburn United in 2020.
Redfern says it has been difficult adjusting to life as a regular professional, but the midfielder reckons his loan with Blackburn has helped toughen him up for senior life at a club renowned for giving young players a chance.
“I have known football all my life,” said Redfern. “I got a loan stint to the East of Scotland League with Blackburn United which was massive for me.
“It’s been difficult but I have really enjoyed it so far. Hamilton has always been a place for young boys to come through and the gaffer has given some of the younger guys their chance to impress.
“I am just focusing on myself, making sure I get into the squads and making sure I am doing the right things. I have to make sure I am playing.”
Redfern has been at Hamilton for more than half of his life, coming through the ranks with fellow young stars like Adam McGowan and Chris McGinn.
Accies academy director George Cairns was present when Redfern signed his first contract, so there’s been a sense of familiarity with him throughout.
“I’ve been at Hamilton since I was about eight, so I’ve been here all my days," he added. "There’s not been anything new to me coming through.
“George Cairns was with me when I signed my first contract at the age of 10!
“Even some of the older boys, like Reegan Mimnaugh and Ronan Hughes, we saw them coming through. It’s mental playing in the first team with guys you’ve come through with.”
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