Chris Mochrie has declared he is prepared to excel in the Scottish Premiership with St Mirren following a two-year development spell at Championship side Airdrieonians. The 23-year-old midfielder, who left newly-promoted Dundee United in 2024 to secure regular first-team football, believes his time in the second tier was crucial in refining his abilities as he seeks to inject creativity into Craig McLeish's midfield.
Mochrie's Journey Through the Ranks
Mochrie netted 17 goals in 93 appearances for Airdrie and now aims to make an impact at the top level after returning to the Premiership with the Buddies. He said: “I’ve spoken to the manager. I know what he wants from me. He wants me to influence the game and create opportunities. I hope I can go and do that. One of the first things he spoke to me about was trying to play through the lines. To play an aggressive style of football, which I really like and agree with. I hope I can help him and be an effective player. I’m very happy to be back in the top flight.”
Early Promise at Dundee United
The Dundonian came through the ranks at Tannadice and became Dundee United’s youngest ever player when he debuted under Robbie Neilson at just 16 years and 27 days as a substitute against Morton in May 2019. That record has since been surpassed by Rory MacLeod. Mochrie spent over a decade at United, making 51 appearances while also enjoying loan spells at Montrose and Dunfermline. Reflecting on his departure, he said: “At that time, yes it was disappointing. I’d been there since I was very young. I played games, scored a couple of goals. That was great but looking back it was best for me to go away and play games. I think I've improved since then.”
Development at Airdrie
Mochrie admitted his stint at Airdrie was instrumental in his growth. He said: “Airdrie was massive for me. Going there and playing in the Championship, which is a good level. Getting that experience of starting games and learning how to affect matches. The first six months were a bit more difficult. I wasn't in the team. I was in and out. I was playing in a new position, playing a bit further forward than I was used to. But once I got used to that, playing week in and week out was very good for me. It's more the physical side of the game. Knowing how to use your body a bit more. Maybe looking to run in behind a bit more, finding different ways to influence the game. Men's football is different from youth football. You have to adapt and I think I'm starting to do that now a lot more.”
Pre-Season and League Cup Opener
Mochrie is preparing for his St Mirren debut in Saturday’s League Cup opener away to Dumbarton. He believes the squad is in strong shape after a pre-season trip to Spain. He said: “These trips give us a good look at how everyone plays and what everyone likes to do. The manager has brought in players who are good on the ball. I think that's the goal this season for the team. Everyone's on the same page, so hopefully we can gel really quickly and get off to a good start.”
