Celtic and Airdrie can work well together, says Diamonds boss

Airdrie boss Ian Murray says a link between themselves and Celtic can work well for both clubs.

The Diamonds can provide a good place for young stars to learn their trade, while it provides access for Airdrie to top young talent such as Kerr McInroy and Brody Paterson.

Left-back Paterson last week joined the League One club on a loan deal until the end of this season, while McInroy enjoyed a successful six-month loan spell at New Broomfield - and Murray is still hopeful of getting him back.

Murray says having a link between Airdrie and Celtic has been mutually beneficial and would like more connections to Premiership clubs.

He said: "I'm delighted to get Brody in, a left-sided defender, and we've been waiting on him for a few weeks just because of a few things going on at Celtic's end.

"It has been in the pipeline for some time, just a waiting game for us and for Brody, but I think we're both really pleased that it's now done, knowing that there's another good young player to add to our squad.

"I think we've got a great relationship between the two clubs that comes from a lot of things - Celtic 'B' team playing here, their ladies' team use it as well, it's a very well-used stadium which is fantastic for us, and surrounding teams who have access to it.

"We've always been in contact with Celtic, certainly since I've come in, and sometimes deals pan out and sometimes they don't.

"But I think with us getting Kerr in and him doing so well, we know a bit of communication between the clubs goes a long way.

"Kerr has gone back to Celtic and told them we're trying to do things properly, that we're good for them.

"Celtic are exceptionally good with their young players, in terms of their treatment and understanding of developing