Airdrieonians have delivered an early Christmas present for fans after announcing the signing of Northern Irish defender Jay Riley.
The 18-year-old has been with the Diamonds since the start of the season but after celebrating his 18th birthday on Thursday, his registration has been approved and can now join up with the first team squad for competitive action.
Diamonds player boss Rhys McCabe is delighted to get Riley involved and said: “Jay has obviously been in for a number of months now, there was a bit of a stumbling block with the international clearance which is unfortunate.
“It’s given him a wee bit of time to come in and settle and get used to how we’re working, and he’s come on really well.
“He’s definitely one with a good future ahead of him.”
Former Coleraine star Riley said: “I’ve been here for quite a long time, just waiting to get signed! I’ve been buzzing to get at it and I can’t wait to get started.
“The NL Cup was a good while ago now, to be fair - there’s been a few training sessions done since then, so I’ve improved since then.
“It’s a good standard - it’s going to be tough, but I think I’ll cope well with it as long as a few of the boys give me a hand!”
Riley could make his debut at home to Edinburgh on January 2 when Airdrie are next in action.
Last night they ended the year on a high with a 4-2 win over Montrose at Links Park.
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