The Club are delighted to announce that two more players from last season's talented Under-20s squad have penned deals.

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U20s captain John Higgins and flying winger Murray Loudon have both signed new two-year contract extensions to keep them at the Club until May 2018.

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Popular right-back Higgy had a typically consistent season last time out as his side impressed throughout the campaign and a host of prospects emerged to become part of the Club’s future.

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Now the tough-tackling defender, 20, is determined to forge ahead with his career and establish himself in the top team squad this season.

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He told airdriefc.com: “Eight of us got a taste of the top team in the 2-1 friendly defeat from NASL side FC Edmonton last season and that was a big night for us.

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“That just whets your appetite and over the last eight weeks the entire 20s squad have been working hard in strength and conditioning sessions to be ready for the new season.

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“We haven’t rested but that’s how it should be, I just can’t wait to get started. All I have ever wanted is this shot at full-time football and I intend to make the most of it.”

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Jet-paced front man Murray, 19, was showing huge promise last season only to be struck down by a broken collarbone when he was terrorising defences in the Development League.

 

A freak reoccurrence of the same injury, in a different place, counted him out again but he has battled through a frustrating rehabilitation under the watchful eyes of Head of Medical Department Michael McLaughlan.

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Murray is well-known throughout the town as a Diamond Life community coach visiting the schools to help deliver our outreach programme.

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His speed and goal threat are valued by the coaching staff and after committing his future he told airdriefc.com: “Last season was gutting at times because I was flying when I got injured and I was desperate to push for the first team.

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“The injury has healed stronger this time, though, and I am pushing on now.

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“I have done all the extra strength and conditioning work with the 20s over the last two months and that will give us all a great base for pre-season.

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“Like everyone else now my sights are set on June 9 and the first time we walk into Ravenscraig as full-time footballers.”