Ayr new boy Nick McAllister has pledged to prove a point to his old paymasters after landing a deal at Somerset Park.
The defender, 20, has penned a two year deal with David Hopkin's side after being released by St Mirren following two years in Paisley.
United beat off a host of other clubs to land McAllister's signature - and the youngster is promising to repay their faith.
He told the Ayrshire Post: "Staying full time was the main goal for me and being able to do it in the Championship is great.
"For me it's about coming here and playing games every week.
"The gaffer has put his faith in me from the start and made it clear how much he wants me.
"The defenders he's brought through in his time as a manager shows what he can hopefully do for my career."
McAllister, who played 14 times on loan at Dumbarton last season as he helped the Sons stay in League One, added: "Being released by St Mirren gives me the chance to come and prove some people wrong.
"As soon as that happens, that's what you want to do and that's what I plan to do.
"I want to come here and play as many games as I can this season and prove to everyone that I deserve to be at this level.
"And hopefully we can push up the table and enjoy a really successful season."
Ayr boss Hopkin added: "There were quite a few in for Nick as he's very well thought of, so we're delighted to get him.
"He's at the perfect age to come in and develop and is hungry to improve and do well."
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