John Rankin’s Airdrie rebuild got underway in earnest today with the signing of striker Matty Yates, who joins from Linfield subject to SFA and international clearances.

Having spent time in the Scottish leagues with Stranraer and Stenhousemuir before his move to the NIFL Premiership, the Paisley-born 23-year-old is delighted to be returning his home country to join the Diamonds.

He told airdriefc.com: “It’s very pleasing for me, I’m looking forward to getting going here at Airdrie. I’m delighted to be here and hopefully I can kick on.

“I’m quite strong, I’m quite quick at turning, and I’m obviously good at scoring goals. Hopefully I can score a few goals here!”

And head coach John Rankin was equally pleased to make his first addition to the playing squad.

“We’re delighted to get this done, Matty’s a proven goalscorer – a centre-forward that will make a difference.

“I’ve worked with him previously so I know what he’s all about, he had a good season at Linfield getting back to full-time football, and this is the next step in his journey.

“He’ll be one that players will look at and know that if they get the ball in and around the box, he’ll take those opportunities – so I’m delighted to get this one over the line.”

Welcome to the Diamonds, Matty!