Airdrie’s senior squad members have voted Leon McCann as the Players Young Player of the Year for season 2019/20.

The 20-year-old full-back has certainly had an interesting season in relation to the Diamonds, first playing AGAINST Airdrie for Hamilton Academical’s U21s in a Tunnock’s Caramel Wafer Cup tie back in August.

The Diamonds were 1-0 winners on the night, but McCann caught the eye with some impressive attacking play from the left-back position. Within a week, manager Ian Murray had moved to secure the youngster on a six-month loan deal alongside team-mate Charlie Reilly.

Leon made his Airdrie debut from the bench in a League One match against East Fife, and the following weekend made his first start against Falkirk.

Playing with a defensive maturity beyond his years and a willingness to attack the left flank with pace, Leon quickly became an integral part of the starting XI, picking up a number of man of the match awards during his loan spell.

As he and Reilly returned to Hamilton in January, a move to sign Leon on a permanent basis was sanctioned, and the young star put pen to paper on an 18-month contract at the Penny Cars Stadium.

Leon’s contribution was this week recognised by his team-mates as they voted him Players Young Player of the Year, and he told airdriefc.com: “I’m absolutely delighted to win this award in my first season of professional football.

“Overall the season has been a massive success for me as I’ve accomplished more than I ever imagined I would have.

“I’d like to say a big thanks to all the boys for voting for me, and for making this season as enjoyable as it has been - I couldn’t have asked for a better group of players to spend it with.

“Hopefully we can get back to playing football as soon as possible and start the hard work for next season.”

Club captain Sean Crighton, who oversaw the Players Awards, added: “The wee man has been a revelation since he came in.

“To be such a young player and adapt the way he did is outstanding, and he’s such a level-headed boy as well.

“I think all the fans and everyone around the club can see the progress that Leon has made, and the potential he still has, and the award was very well deserved.”

Congratulations, Leon!