Airdrie legend Kenny Black: Too long since club's last trophy but Rhys McCabe can end 16-year wait

Airdrie legend Kenny Black says it has been “far too long” since the Diamonds last lifted silverware and is backing player-boss Rhys McCabe to sink The New Saints in Sunday’s SPFL Trust Trophy Final.

It has been 16 years since Airdrie claimed a trophy and Black was the man to deliver it in the very same competition back in 2008.

Black’s side defeated Ross County 3-2 in a dramatic penalty shootout, following a 2-2 draw after extra-time at McDiarmid Park, and it has been a barren run since that cup triumph.

But the ex-midfielder - who made over 250 appearances in the Diamond and won the trophy as a player in 1995 with the club - believes McCabe can end the long wait for glory against the Welsh Premier League champions.

The 60-year-old, now Loans Manager at English Premier League side Sheffield United, told Lanarkshire Live Sport : “It’s been too long. I couldn’t believe it when I found out it has been 16 years, so hopefully that changes.

“The New Saints, I don’t know a great deal about, but I do know they qualify for European competition nearly every season so they are very experienced.

“The fact they have reached the final tells you they are capable of producing results.

“But I’m sure Rhys can come up with a team selection and a strategy to lift the first trophy in 16 years.

“I thought managing was difficult enough so to manage and play as well is something else. I’m sure Rhys has good people around him and he’ll lean on their input as well.

“It is a marvellous opportunity for them and I’m sure they will embrace it, just as we did that day at McDiarmid Park.

“It doesn’t matter what trophy it is, to do that would be special and I’m sure there will be a great turnout.

“I’ll be watching from afar and hoping Airdrie can