West Lothian footballer Rhys McCabe has been named as the new manager of League One side Airdrieonians at the age of just 29.
And the Polbeth-born midfielder will be assisted by his cousin and former Livingston defender Callum Fordyce.
The move comes after Ian Murray left the Diamonds to take over at Raith Rovers earlier this week. Both will continue to be part of the playing squad.
McCabe, who started his career at Rangers, has just finished his first season at the club with club captain Fordyce having signed for Airdrie in 2019.
The duo both appeared in over 40 games for Airdrie last term as they fell just short of promotion to the Championship, losing to Queen’s Park in the play-off final after running Cove Rangers close for the title.
Livingston-born Fordyce came through the ranks with his hometown club, making over 100 appearances before departing for Dunfermline Athletic in 2015.
A club statement read: “The club hierarchy noticed very early on last season that Rhys has the football intelligence and leadership qualities that modern footballers respect and expect from a manager. Callum has also demonstrated this over the past three seasons.
“We will ensure that a fully comprehensive support structure is put in place to support Rhys and Callum in their managerial journey at Airdrieonians.”
Speaking to the club’s official website, McCabe commented: “It’s good to get signed up and get things over the line as quick as we have, so I’m excited, raring to go and looking forward to getting onto the pitch.
“I’ve always made it clear that towards the latter stages of my career it was an avenue I’d like to go down. Obviously the opportunity has come up to dive straight in, so it’s one that I’m excited about.”
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