Marc Fitzpatrick has decided to step down from his role as assistant manager and leave the club as he explores potential opportunities in the game.

 

The 33-year-old joined Airdrie from Greenock Morton in 2014, performing in a number of positions in defence and midfield.

 

Scoring nine times in 79 appearances for the Diamonds, Marc’s playing career was cut short by an injury sustained in November 2016. During a lengthy rehabilitation, the then club captain began to help out in a coaching capacity as Airdrie briefly moved into full-time football.

 

After an attempted comeback was cut short, Marc was officially named as assistant manager to Stevie Findlay in February 2018, having already been a welcome presence in the changing room and the dugout.

 

With the club in a top-four position after Saturday’s win at Peterhead, and a break from league action coming up this weekend, Marc felt the time was right to step down.

 

He told airdriefc.com: “With the club’s hybrid set-up putting more of an emphasis on full-time training, I feel it’s best to move on.

 

“This was my sixth season at Airdrie, and I’ve been here through good times and bad times, but I feel that moving on now is the right decision for me personally, and I’m looking forward to my next challenge.

 

“I want to thank the club for the support they have shown me through the years - I feel privileged to have been player, captain, coach, assistant and caretaker manager of this club, and I wish everyone all the best for the future.”

 

Manager Ian Murray said: “Marc will be a big loss to us, I’ve thoroughly enjoyed working with him over the last year.

 

“He’s been a big help to me in a lot of different areas, and his contribution to the club shouldn’t be underestimated.

 

“I wish him the best of luck with whatever he does next, and I have no doubt that he’ll be a success.”

 

And Director of Football Stuart Millar added: “I can’t praise Marc highly enough, his professionalism throughout his time at the club has been exemplary.

 

“He’s been here through some tough times, and has given his all in a number of different roles.

 

“I’m certain he’ll make a fantastic manager in the future, and I wish him all the best with the next steps in his career.”

 

A popular figure in all of his roles over his six years at the club, Marc leaves with our very best wishes for the future. We will watch his career with interest, and it goes without saying he will always be welcome back at the Penny Cars Stadium.