Hamilton academy director George Cairns has watched Lewis Smith rise through the academy ranks - and he can see his next move taking him to the next level.
The 21-year-old has signed a new deal with the New Douglas Park club until 2024 after a strong start to the Championship season.
Smith's 20/21 term was largely disrupted by injury as Accies were relegated from the Premiership. He's emerged as a key player again under head coach Stuart Taylor.
Cairns has worked with the winger at every age group within the Hamilton academy, taking immense pride in his progress.
The academy director reckons that while Smith is remaining in South Lanarkshire for now, a big move elsewhere beckons.
"It's great," said Cairns. "It's always good to see another youth academy product come through at the club. I've known Lewis a long time.
"It's great to see him sign another contract and I hope the next contract he signs is a big move somewhere else. He's starting to show the player he is.
"He has scored a couple of goals this season as well and here's hoping he can go on to bigger and better things. It's always great to see them don a jersey.
"The guys know how I feel about them. They know about how the club works and how we operate. They want to play first team football and they believe in their own ability.
"Now it's about showing the world what they can."
Cairns believes Smith has made the best of his talents, and those will take him to bigger things.
"I first had him when he was nine years of age," added Cairns on Smith. "He's been here a long time. I've seen him go through nappies and all sorts here!
"When we sign a player at a young age, you work with them the best you can to give them the tools to go forward with. He's done that.
"I get to know a lot about our kids. I learn the good and the bad - but that's what it's all about. It's getting the relationship with them and you want them to do well."
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