Hamilton boss Billy Reid today hailed the signing of former Celtic stopper Jim Goodwin as a pivotal piece of business.

The 28-year-old was released by English side Huddersfield Town prior to the closure of the transfer window and has signed until January.

And with centre-backs Mark McLaughlin and David Elebert coming through training sessions unscathed following lengthy injury absences, plus Martin Canning’s return from suspension, Reid has extra options at the back for the visit of Rangers on Saturday.

The Accies manager said: “I have been tracking Jim for some time and what he will give us is presence, leadership and communication in defence.

“He is a full Republic of Ireland international and, given the problems we have had at the back with injury and suspension, it is great to get him in.

“I am confident he can be a major player for us over the season ahead.”

Reid also reckons that his capture of former Dundee United target man Damian Casalinuovo, on a two- year deal, will provide the presence his previously shot-shy strikeforce have lacked since Mickael Antoine-Curier’s return to Dundee.

The Accies boss said: “Damian is powerful and can hold the ball up well, while he is good in the air and is also direct on the ground. He brings us qualities that we did not have and qualities that we definitely needed in a key area of the park.

“Along with young Nigel Hasselbaink, we have got two guys who give us these different options and, over the course of a long and demanding season, that will be vital.”