Diamonds stalwart Liam Brindle has decided to step down from his post as Airdrieonians Head of Youth. 

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Diehard fan Liam has played a pivotal role in the Club's development system over the years but has chosen to stand aside as the Academy moves into a new era. 

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Liam worked tirelessly for the Diamonds in trying times and through his efforts in creating an academy he was able to unearth and nurture talents like Liam Coogans and Jordan Allan - a duo of stars who brought in much-needed revenue. 

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He explained: "After 10 years coaching youths at Airdrie and four and a half years establishing the academy, the decision to step aside was never an easy one. 

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 I like most fans am encouraged by Tom Wotherspoon's initial impact at the club and his vision for the future excites me. 

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"The plans to expand the academy are also very positive, but I know this expansion will require a full time head of youth which was something I was not able to accommodate.  

 

"Whilst extremely tough for me to leave I felt it important to give the new guys at the academy their place to develop what I hope they see as a solid foundation to build from.  

 

"In my opinion the academy is at the stage where development was needed, as the players and the excellent coaches we have need to step up to the next level to provide a greater opportunity for the youth players to break into the first team squad.   

 

"It would be remiss of me not to offer thanks to Ann Marie for her tireless support over the years I have coached at the Club, and to Jimmy Boyle who was also instrumental in getting the academy of the ground.  

 

"Ross MacKenzie, Alan Leslie and George Hamill have also been great support on the coaching front and it's this backing that got the academy to where it is today. 

 

"I also appreciate the opportunity to continue working within the academy given to me by Iain. Now may not be the right time for me but I have been told I will always be welcome, I have my tracksuit, so never say never.   

 

"I sincerely wish all at the academy every success, and I look forward to players who have had the opportunity to progress through the academy making their first team debut in an Airdrie side challenging for promotion into the Premier League and beyond. "