Kyle Connell wants to be the man to get Airdrie back on track by firing the Diamonds to three points against Montrose.

The Kilmarnock striker has impressed since joining on loan in October - perhaps a good thing, as a recent social media video suggests he may have to give up any dreams of being a pop star. Luckily Connell is loving life at the Penny Cars Stadium.

“I’m really enjoying it - as soon as I got here everybody made me feel welcome, so I can’t complain!

“There’s a big difference stepping up from reserve football. It’s everybody’s job and more is at stake, so it’s a lot more serious.”

Connell has bagged two goals in six starts since moving from Rugby Park, but the 19-year-old is hungry for more.

“I just want to get as much experience as possible by playing as many games as I can. Hopefully by doing that, goals will come and I can help the club to promotion.

“Obviously as a striker you’re looking to hit double figures, but I’ll take whatever I get. I’m only here until January at the moment, but if that can be extended I’ll have more time to hit my targets!”

Last Saturday wasn’t the Diamonds’ greatest day in front of goal as Ian Murray’s side went down 2-0 to East Fife at Bayview.

Connell admits that the Airdrie performance wasn’t good enough, but stresses that the squad are looking to make immediate amends.

“It was a terrible game, but we need to put it behind us now. All we can do it watch back over it, look at what went wrong and go again on Saturday.

“We started slowly and just didn’t get into the game at all, and that’s not something you can afford to do in this league.”

As the first third of the shortened League One season approaches its end, Airdrie welcome Montrose to the Penny Cars Stadium for the penultimate match of the first round of fixtures.

Stewart Petrie’s side are level on points with the Diamonds after a four-match unbeaten run, and Kyle knows that he and his team-mates will have to work hard to get a result against the Gable Endies.

“Every game in this league is tough - but if we start well and play how we can, we’ll give ourselves a chance.

“Here’s hoping I can get myself on the scoresheet again to help us get three points.”

Manager Ian Murray wants his side to collect the points and move up the table as the Diamonds’ festive fixtures approach.

“Montrose come down here on the back of a great away win against Cove Rangers, so we know how hard it will be.

“We’re looking to get back on track and put last weekend’s disappointment behind us. If results go our way a win could put us second top, so we have plenty of incentive.”

Ally Roy, Harlain Mbayo and Patrick Pyott remain sidelined for the Diamonds boss, who has an otherwise fully fit squad to choose from.

You can stream the match on our DTVLive platform by clicking the link below.