We are delighted to announce that Stephen Findlay and Marc Fitzpatrick have signed new 18-month contracts with Airdrieonians, as manager and assistant manager respectively.

 

The pair penned their new deals before tonight's training session at Excelsior Stadium.

 

Findlay, who had been operating under the title of first team coach since September, spoke to airdriefc.com after putting pen to paper.

"I'm delighted to have signed the deal. It's great that the new board and the new owners are continuing the faith that's been placed in myself and Marc. Hopefully we can repay that faith and build on the positivity around the club.

"I'm pleased to have Marc as my assistant too, he's been a real rock since I came back to the club. He's been here through everything, and it's a great transition for Marc to make - I'm absolutely delighted to have him by my side."

Midfielder Fitzpatrick has been an important presence in training and in the dugout since being sidelined with a cruciate ligament injury last season.

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The 31-year-old is pleased to now be named as number two at New Broomfield.

"It feels good that it's official now, rather than just helping out! It's nice to have a specified role so everybody knows what I'm there for and what I'm doing.

"Hopefully my efforts will help this club go on to better things."

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Director Stuart Shields explained the board's decision to get the pair tied down.

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"From early meetings with Stevie, the board quickly saw that the manager shared our vision, therefore it was important that we secured his services for next season.

"We have already started the rebuilding process in January and with Marc also committing to the club, and we will continue backing them in strengthening the squad for seasons to come.

 

And newly appointed Diamonds chairman Bobby Watson was just as happy to see the management team commit.

"It's a new adventure at Airdrie, and we're delighted that Stephen and Marc are staying with us. It's certainly not the worst place to start their careers and hopefully they'll have a turn of success.

"Stevie's spent a lot of time at this club, and he's a real Airdrieonian. It's clear that he's emotionally involved and that's very important.

"I hope we can encourage people in Airdrie to join myself, the new board, Stevie and Marc on this adventure."