Ryan targets L1 title

Striker Andy Ryan is eyeing up a promotion push at Airdrie after his Diamonds return.

The front man last week penned a loan deal at the Penny Cars Stadium from Dunfermline to help the League One title charge.

The striker is cup-tied after playing for the Pars in the Scottish Cup already, so will miss the glamour tie against Hearts this weekend.

However, after coming close to promotion during his first goal- laden spell at the club, the 25-year-old has a league focus and wants to make amends for the play-off defeat this time around.

He told the Advertiser: “There were a lot of things that attracted me to the club, but I do feel like there is a bit of unfinished business.

“The last time I was here we got to the play-off’s and lost on penalties to Alloa, and that left a bit of a sour taste in my mouth.

“This time it’s a bit different for me coming in halfway through a season. The boys here have done great and it’s now my job to try and help add to that.

“I’ve come here to try and

help the team as much as I can. I did have a couple of offers to stay in the Championship, but the big thing was the fans though.

“I couldn’t say no to the support and Airdrie feels like a club building something.

“Itjustfeltrightandhavingbeenat the club before I went with my gut.”Despite mixed fortunes during his stint at the Pars, Ryan feels like he returns to the club as a much-improved marksman.

“I feel like I am coming back from Dunfermline as a better player,” he added.

“I’ve learned things from playing at that level. It was tough for me to leave

Airdrie but the appeal was getting to playing in the Championship.

“Itwasabitstop-startformethere, but I don’t hold any grudges. Training fulltime, every day has helped me improve.”

With Airdrie boss Ian Murray currently favouring the attacking trio of Calum Gallagher, Dale Carrick and loanee Callum Smith the forward knows he will have to battle to break into the team. Ryan added: “I know that I am going to have to work hard to get in the team because the boys that are here have got the team in this position.

“I want to play as many games as I can, andscoreasmanygoalsasIcan,butI’llbe patient and wait for my chance.

“HopefullyIcanimpressthemanager.”