It's the start of a new era at Airdrieonians this weekend with Gary Bollan installed as the club's new manager. 

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The 40-year-old, who won back-to-back league championships with Livingston, replaces Jimmy Boyle ahead of tomorrow's visit of Ayr United.

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Speaking shortly after arriving at the stadium on Thursday night, Bollan confirmed that Paul Lovering would take charge for the visit of the Honest Men but that he would have some input.

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And he expressed his joy at being back in football management following his departure from Livi at the beginning of last year.

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"I'm over the moon and delighted the chairman [Jim Ballantyne] has given me the opportunity to come and manage the club," he said.

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"Things happened very quickly and I'm really pleased it has all been tied up.

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"It's great to be back in the game. Football's all I have ever done and I was desperate to get back into it.

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"I'll look at the players here. We'll start with a clean slate and everybody will get their chance."

Bollan added: "It's a big match this Saturday but at this stage of the season and where the club are in the table, every game's a big game.

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"I'm coming in with immediate effect but it's only fair to 'Lovers' who has taken training that he, along with my input, selects the team. So, although I'll be here on Saturday, I'll be working alongside Paul in taking the team."