BRIAN RICE hailed 'phenomenal talent' Jamie Hamilton after his superb showing against Rangers.

The defender produced an accomplished display to help Accies earn a crucial point against Steven Gerrard's side on Sunday.

A late Ross Callachan effort cancelled out Brian Easton's own goal as Rice's side became only the four to deny Rangers victory in the Premiership this term.

And the Lanarkshire boss was thrilled to see Hamilton once again show his promise as he impressed on the big stage.

Rice said: "I have been speaking about Jamie Hamilton since I came in here and it falls on deaf ears.

"He is a phenomenal talent, absolutely phenomenal talent. I have worked with a lot i of good kids in my time and Jamie is right up with the best.

"He learns every day. He is quiet, listens and takes things on board. He was out there playing against top players and didn’t look out of place. I thought he was outstanding.

"He is getting a lot of help from the experienced lads around about him and they continue the learning in matches.

"I don’t want to label him anything. I go to a lot of games down south and Jamie Hamilton is as good a young defender as I’ve seen.

"He reminds of someone but I don’t want to say who. It’s a young Scottish internationalist when I played. Jamie will mature and get better and better."