Airdrie & Coatbridge Advertiser
LIVING THE DREAM
Gaffer says squad must compete at league’s top end
Airdrie boss Stephen Findlay says his players only need to take a look at Livingston to see “anything is possible”.
The West Lothian club were playing against Airdrie in League One a little over 12 months ago but have since gone on to clinch remarkable backtoback promotions to the Scottish Premiership. Findlay admits Airdrie must now compete at the “top end of the league” this season and is pleased with the way the squad have gelled in pre-season so far. The Diamonds trounced Highland league side Clachnacuddin 6- 0 on Saturday, after two 1-1 draws against Forres Mechanics and Stirling Albion earlier in the week. Airdrie then face Livingston a week on Saturday as competitive action returns in the shape of the Betfred Cup, and Findlay reckons their “outstanding achievement” can spur his own players on. He told the Advertiser: “You just have to take a look at Livi to realise anything is possible. “If you have the right people at a club it can really take you places. “They have team spirit, a good attitude and are prepared to roll up their sleeves.
“I’m not sure if I’d describe them as an inspiration for everyone, but they’ve certainly shown what can be done.
“If you have the right players, team spirit and the right attitude, then anything is possible.”
After taking on Livi, Airdrie face Berwick Rangers and Annan Athletic in the Betfred Cup before facing Hamilton Accies in the final fixture.
Despite the tournament offering the chance of a cup run, Findlay admits his team will still be finding their feet when the games come around.
He added: “I think the cup gives us a chance to build on preseason more than anything else.
“The games come thick and fast, and with us having a new squad it allows us to prepare for the season ahead.
“Playing two Premiership sides means it’ll be very tough to progress but we’ll want to give a good account of ourselves.”
Findlay went on: “I don’t want to make any promises for this season but we’ve got to compete at the right end of the league.
“We’ve brought in players like Sean Crighton and Jonathan Page who have tasted title success before and know what it takes.”