Airdrie & Coatbridge Advertiser
Findlay targets return of Motherwell loanees
Manager explains need for ins and outs at Airdrie
Airdrieonians hope to bring back Luke Watt and Jake Hastie next term.
Boss Stephen Findlay revealed last week that they were keeping tabs on the duo, who were on loan at the Diamonds from Motherwell last season.
Winger Hastie has a year left on his current deal with the Steelmen, but Findlay hopes they can secure another loan for the 19-year-old.
Watt is coming to the end of his contract at Fir Park – but Findlay says he is looking for a full-time club this summer.
“We have left it open for Luke and Jake,” the gaffer told the Advertiser.
“We would love to bring Jake Hastie back on loan if we could, but he will have to go back to them and see where he is with their first team in pre-season.
“We have left the door open for Luke Watt.
“He wants to stay in full-time football, but Luke has said to us if he weren’t to find full- time football he would love to stay at Airdrie.”
The news comes as the Diamonds ring the changes at the Excelsior Stadium.
Matthew Kerr, David Brownlie, John Higgins, Jordan McGregor, Adam Brown, Ross Brown and Tom Fry are exiting the club after their contracts expired.
Sean McIntosh and goalkeeper Willie Muir were offered new deals, and Darryl Duffy, who is set to make the switch to part-time football, has also been offered new terms following his release from St Mirren.
Decisions on the under- 20 squad players will also be made later this week.
“I thank the players for all their efforts and endeavours last season,” said Findlay.
“It was valiant effort in terms of what we had to get through, but next season we are going ahead with different plans in terms of how we shape up and where we want to be.
“It’s a different direction we are heading for next season, and it’s important we do that.”
Findlay also made his move in the transfer market to bring in Brechin duo Sean Crighton and Chris O’Neil.
Ex-player David Proctor has additionally joined the backroom staff as first- team coach from Lowland League side East Kilbride.
The gaffer was delighted to add to his squad.
“We had an initial conversation with Sean and he demonstrated how much he wanted to come back,” continued Findlay. “It’s been a really easy deal to do with him.
“Bringing someone in with Sean’s experience and leadership qualities is great.”
He added: “Chris is a brilliant defender and is one of those lads who gives you everything and he will really bring us on in terms of our defensive shape and qualities.”