We are delighted to announce our first new signing of 2020 as Leon McCann joins the club from Hamilton Academical on a permanent basis.

 

The defender joined the Diamonds on loan in August after impressing in a Tunnocks Caramel Wafer Cup tie against Hamilton’s U21s, and quickly made his mark at Airdrie with some impressive performances in the attacking left-back position.

 

With Leon’s five-month loan deal reaching its conclusion this week, manager Ian Murray was delighted to be able to agree a transfer for the 19-year-old.

 

Signing an 18-month deal under the watchful eye of Director of Football Stuart Millar, Leon told airdriefc.com: “From the minute I got here I felt welcomed by the fans, the staff and the players - every single one of them made the experience so much easier.

 

“The amount of games I’ve played has been a huge factor in my decision to sign, to come in and play 15 games in League One is more than I thought I’d be doing at this point in my career.

 

“Hopefully that can continue and I can play as many games as possible, and with the run we’ve been on I’m hoping we can go for the title. Promotion through the play-offs would be good, but winning the league would be really special.

 

“I’m an ambitious player, and I want to be playing in the Championship with Airdrie next season.”

 

Stuart added: “We’re thrilled that Leon has joined us permanently now. He’s been a great example to any young player going out on loan, and for someone who had never played a senior match before, he’s acquitted himself tremendously well.

 

“We’ve already seen progression in Leon’s game, and we look forward to developing that potential further over the next 18 months.

 

“I’d like to thank Hamilton chairman Allan Maitland, manager Brian Rice and head of youth George Cairns, who have been very accommodating with regard to Leon. Our relationship has been first class, and we wish Hamilton the best of luck with the remainder of the season.”

 

Meanwhile midfielder Charlie Reilly’s loan deal has also come to an end, and he returns to Accies with our best wishes. We thank Charlie for his efforts during his time at the club, and wish him well for a speedy recovery from injury and for what we are sure will be a bright future in the game.

 

Midfielder James Cowan has also left the club following the expiration of his contract. Again, we would like to thank James for his services during his short time with the Diamonds and wish him all the best in his future career.