Connections key in new Airdrie boss hunt

Diamonds search as DoF Dalziel talks up candidates

Gordon Dalziel believes the ideal candidate for the new Airdrie boss would be well- connected in the game.

The Diamonds are on the hunt for a replacement for Mark Wilson, who left the club last week after seven months in charge.

Dalziel believes the perfect candidate would able to use their connections to snap up talent for next season.

He noted they have received plenty of applications for the position already, and the Advertiser understands that amongst the pile of CVs is former Rangers and Middlesbrough coach Frank Nuttall as well as former Motherwell midfielder Simo Valakari.

Dalziel says he will sit down with the board to look at the candidates in the coming days.

“Some managers may want the job but they don’t suit us, or we want them and it’s not the club for them,” said Dalziel.

“It’s about finding the best person to fit the club.

“There are always one or two managers you hear rumoured and linked with clubs, but we want to focus on getting the right man who will try to do their best for the club.

“It’s no secret, and has been well documented, that Tom ( Wotherspoon) stepping back has been a real body blow for us.

“For us, whoever comes in next will have to have good connections in the game.

“We have started to look at a few potential signings, but the new head coach will need to have their say.

“Just now for the club it is just about taking it day by day.

“We are a young side, there is no getting away from that, so we want someone who can come in and develop the talent that we already have here.”

Dalziel was speaking after himself and coach Donald Jennow led the team to a 3-0 win over Gala Fairydean Rovers.

Hitman Andy Ryan missed the game due to a hip injury, however, Dalziel believes that the injury isn’t serious.

“Andy travelled with the group, and we thought about giving him a bit of time,” continued the Director of Football.

“Once we looked at the pitch we decided we didn’t want to risk it, and would give him a fresh start against Clyde (on July 4).

“He will be back in at most two weeks.”

Dalziel was particularly delighted to see Marc Fitzpatrick make his return to first team action, but admitted he wanted to take it slow with the captain after he fought back after months of recovery.

“The best thing about Saturday was seeing Marc pull on the jersey again.

“He has shown the right attitude and so much dedication to come back from a horrendous injury.”

The game gave the under-20 team a chance to play at least 45 minutes, and Dalziel believes that only helps Airdrie going forward.

“There is a shortage of players at the club just now, and we have had to bring through some of the under-20’s. There was some good performances, but some of the players in the mix may not be quite ready for the first team.

“Getting games is the best way to learn.

“There are a lot of positives to take from the game.”

Keep calm Gordon Dalziel is currently leading training for the Diamonds