Airdrie striker is loving life under new boss Rhys McCabe after initial shock

Striker Callum Smith admits he was shocked to learn that team-mate Rhys McCabe had landed the Airdrie manager’s job in the summer, but is loving life at the Diamonds.

McCabe took over on a player-boss role after Ian Murray and assistant Scott Agnew left for Championship side Raith Rovers.

But Smith says McCabe’s playing style has been enjoyable to play in and is looking forward to banging in the goals to take Airdrie up to the Championship.

He said: “Rhys went from being a team-mate to the boss, but it has been easy, to be fair.

“When it first got announced I was a bit shocked, but ever since the first day of pre-season it has been quite easy.

“I think because we’ve been doing very well it has been easier, but it has all been positive so far.

“Overall this season we’ve been very good, actually. The gaffer gives us instructions for what he wants us to do, we’re following it, and it has been very good.

“We’re all passing the ball about well and we’re all enjoying our football, the boys have been working hard, so it has been enjoyable to play in.”

Smith netted in the 2-0 opening day win at Peterhead, and hopes he’s going to get close to the 19 he hit last season as Airdrie chased a play-off promotion to the Championship, which ultimately saw Queen’s Park go up.

But he said: “I’m happy with my performances so far, I’m just looking for the goals.

“I’ve got one so far and I’m happy with that, but every week I’m looking to get more and contribute as much as I can to the team.

“Everybody’s weighing in with goals, even from the bench. The gaffer was saying we’ve got boys coming off the bench and scoring, just like at the Falkirk game last week, and it has been a real team effort.

“Goals are important, especially for strikers, and