WANDERERS failed to agree a deadline-day deal with Gary Fraser because the Hamilton Academical youngster did not feel he could settle away from home.

The 18-year-old midfielder had been all-set to sign this week after agreeing terms on a move from the Scottish First Division club.

But Dougie Freedman expressed his regret that the former Celtic youth product pulled out of the transfer at the last minute, feeling he did not want to move away from his family north of the border.

“It was a shame, but Gary felt he couldn’t settle,” said the Wanderers boss.

The cancelled move also came as a surprise to Hamilton manager Billy Reid.

“I was really shocked to be honest,” he said. “As far as I was aware, the move was pretty much done and dusted. The clubs had agreed a fee and we’d moved on. “I wasn’t privy to the discussions about the fee involved but I was pretty certain he’d be away. But Gary decided he didn’t feel the move was right for him. “He didn’t feel he was ready to leave his family and a local environment at such a young age. It was a big opportunity for him but he’s made his call.”