Airdrie boss John Rankin has strengthened his squad with the arrival of four fresh faces at New Broomfield ahead of today's Premier Sports Cup clash with Dundee. The Diamonds are gearing up for the first competitive match under their new gaffer, and Rankin has brought in two goalkeepers, a midfielder and a striker to bolster his ranks.
New Signings Announced
Rankin had told Lanarkshire Live Sport earlier this week that he could 'guarantee' fans new signings, and shot-stoppers Jamie Sneddon and Ruairidh Adams have joined alongside striker Liam McLeish and midfielder AJ Bridge. Sneddon has been on trial with the club during pre-season, while Adams arrives from Premiership side Dundee United on loan. Bridge signs after leaving English Championship side Norwich City, and McLeish impressed on trial in pre-season, having previously been at Queen's Park.
On his new outfield signings, Rankin told the club website: “Liam has been in with us for a few weeks now, and he’s really impressed during that time so we were keen to get him tied up. He gets into really good positions in the forward areas and can also link up the play well. It’s important to have someone who adds a different dimension to the strikers that we already have, so we’re happy to get him signed.”
“AJ is a very promising young midfielder, obviously he moved from Middlesbrough to Norwich a few years ago and he’s now looking to make the transition into first team football. He’s impressed us over the time he’s been here – good energy, good enthusiasm, and really good quality on the ball and he can thread a pass. That ability to unlock defences will be invaluable as the season goes on, so I’m delighted to get him in.”
Goalkeeping Reinforcements
Diamonds goalkeeping coach Callum Erskine praised the new keepers and said: “We’re really happy to get Jamie in and signed. I’ve known him for a few years now, and he’s looking as good as he ever has. I think the fans will see the quality that he’s shown in the pre-season games, and I’m confident he’ll carry that on into the season, adding good experience and quality to our young group.
“We’re delighted to welcome Ruairidh to the club, and I’m really looking forward to working with him. He has a lot of experience under his belt for his age, having played nearly 100 professional matches as well as numerous international appearances at under 21 level. He’ll add even more quality and competitiveness to the goalkeeping group.”
Player Reactions
Bridge, 21, spent part of last season on loan at Cork City and has impressed during pre-season. He said: “I’ve really enjoyed it – we’ve had a tough few games this week and I’ve enjoyed getting to know the lads. I’m a midfielder who can play anywhere in midfield. I just like to get on the ball and create chances!”
McLeish, also 21, commented: “I’ve really enjoyed it since I came in, so I was pleased to get the deal sorted. I can’t wait to get going, and I’m sure we can do well in the cup games before we start the league matches and hopefully push for a return to the Championship.”
Manager's Excitement Ahead of Cup Opener
The Diamonds kick-off their group stage campaign of the League Cup at Dens Park this afternoon, and Rankin said: “I cannae wait! Really I think when you look at the players, when they go through pre-season they’re always desperate for the season to start. It’s a tough game, Steven Pressley got Dundee playing well last season. I think he surprised everybody with the football in the second half of the season, so it’s going to be a tough day up in Dundee, but as I say it’s one we can’t wait for.”
