Airdrie defender signs contract extension for Championship campaign

Airdrieonians have announced defender Craig Watson has signed a contract extension.

The 28-year-old was a vital part of Rhys McCabe's side which won promotion to the Scottish Championship, beating Watson's old side Hamilton Accies on penalties in last month's play-off final. Watson was sent off in the first leg of the final and missed the return leg.

He becomes the eighth player to commit to the club for the 2023/24 campaign.

Goalkeeper Josh Rae, defender Cammy Ballantyne, midfielders Justin Devenny and Lewis McGregor and the League One/Club player of the year Calum Gallagher are all signed up for next season, alongside Hibs loanees Murray Aitken and Josh O’Connor.

An Airdrie statement read: "We are pleased to announce that defender Craig Watson has signed a contract extension to remain with the club. "Watson joined Airdrie from East Fife in May 2021 and has made 78 appearances across his two seasons at the Excelsior.

"Showing his versatility by featuring both in the centre of defence and as an attacking full-back, the former Hamilton man has also shown a keen eye for goal, finding the net five times - with a few goal-of-the-season contenders among his haul. "Having missed out on the second leg of the play-off final through suspension following a contentious red card, “Janny” can now look forward to Championship football as he enters his third season with the Diamonds."

Airdrie return for pre-season training on Saturday ahead of their first competitive action on July 15 in the Viaplay League Cup.

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