Scott Walker was delighted to make his Diamonds debut, and the young defender is hoping for more opportunities as he anticipates a tricky tie against East Fife.

19-year-old full-back Walker was drafted into the starting line-up as Airdrie welcomed Cove Rangers to the Penny Cars Stadium last week, impressing with a solid performance at the sides drew 1-1.

The former Partick Thistle youth was happy to make the first-team breakthrough.

“I enjoyed it, I was delighted to start.

“The first half was tough, Cove kept the ball well, but the manager changed the formation at half-time and we looked better.

“I felt I saw more of the ball and got forward more after that, so I think I did alright.”

Walker was an integral member of last season’s reserve squad which enjoyed a Challenge Cup final win over Livingston, but he says it’s a notable transition to the first-team.

“I think the biggest difference is fitness-wise. The boys that were with the reserves last year have had to work hard in training to get up to the levels of the other guys.

“It’s a big step up, but I feel like I can handle it.”

With his senior bow now taken care of, Walker has set his sights on further appearances.

“The aim now is to stay in the manager’s thoughts and hopefully get a few more games.

“Everyone at the club is pushing towards promotion to the Championship, and it would be great to play a part in that.”

With attention turning to Saturday’s SPFL League One match at the Locality Hub Bayview Stadium, Scott expects East Fife to provide as stern a test as ever - despite their current league position.

“It’ll be a tough game. Any time I’ve seen East Fife, they’ve always been a team that fight for everything.

“They’ve had a hard start so their league position is probably a bit false and they’ll be doing everything to get off the bottom.

“We’ve been performing well though, so I think if we play our own game and move the ball quickly, we should be able to get a result.”

Manager Ian Murray added: “East Fife have a very strong squad, so we’re expecting another tough game but we go there full of confidence after some good recent performances.”

The Diamonds boss confirmed that defender Harlain Mbayo and striker Ally Roy are still rated as doubtful alongside long-term injury victim Patrick Pyott.

The match is available live on East Fife’s EFTV streaming platform, priced at £12.50. Access can be purchased via credit/debit card or PayPal using the link below. Fans are advised to sign up to EFTV well in advance of kick-off so that any issues can be dealt with.