Hamilton Academical’s new owner, Rob Edwards, has admitted that the Scottish League One club still faces a risk of administration, but expressed confidence that insolvency can be avoided with the cooperation of creditors and careful management.

Edwards’ Morley Sports Management Group (MSM) purchased a 97.5% stake in the troubled club from former owner Seref Zengin on Sunday, marking a new chapter for the financially-strapped Accies. The takeover comes after a turbulent few weeks in which players and staff were left unpaid for December, raising concerns over whether Hamilton would even be able to fulfil their scheduled fixture against East Fife.

The match, which was due to take place at Hamilton’s temporary home at Broadwood Stadium in Cumbernauld, was postponed due to severe cold weather. Edwards confirmed that overdue wages will be paid within 48 hours, providing immediate reassurance to players and staff.

Hamilton’s Financial Challenges

The club has previously relied on emergency funding from financial services company The Funding Globe to meet payroll obligations. In December, a Funding Globe representative, Jonny Towers, became Hamilton’s sole director. Edwards stressed that Towers and Funding Globe are now no longer involved in management, acting only as creditors with a “secure charge against the club.”

“Administration is in no-one’s best interest,” Edwards told BBC Scotland. “It does depend on Funding Globe, other creditors, and parties working with us to find the best resolution. We are negotiating to settle and move forward.”

Edwards has joined the Hamilton board alongside associate Neil Blankstone and interim chairman Allan Currie, signaling a refreshed leadership structure aimed at stabilizing the club.

Rob Edwards’ Vision and Experience

Edwards brings experience from his ownership of Haverfordwest County in the Welsh Cymru Premier, which he took over five-and-a-half years ago. Under MSM, Haverfordwest qualified for European competitions twice in three years and established a highly productive academy system. Edwards plans to replicate this model at Hamilton, combining on-field performance with strong community engagement.

“Our academy is extremely productive, and we are active in the community,” Edwards said. “We dedicate 35-40 hours a week to schools, the stadium, and local initiatives. We aim to create a football club that the community can be proud of.”

Sporting Situation and Relegation Risk

Hamilton’s recent history has been turbulent, with points deductions stacking up over several seasons, including nine-point and six-point penalties this term for breaches such as late wage payments. Currently, the Accies are eighth in League One, level on points with Cove Rangers and three points clear of Kelty Hearts, who have played an extra game.

Edwards warned supporters that relegation is a high possibility, but emphasized the importance of patience and community backing:

“It’s going to be extremely difficult. Back us, but be patient for the next few months. We want to give to Hamilton, and we want Hamilton to give back to us. If we get that right, we can build a club the community can truly be proud of.”

Hamilton also hope to return to their traditional home, New Douglas Park, once the club’s financial and operational situation stabilizes.