Airdrieonians have confirmed the signing of midfielder Connor Smith, subject to Scottish FA and international clearance. The 24-year-old arrives as a free agent after leaving English National League side Scunthorpe United, where he spent last season.

Smith is a familiar face to Diamonds boss John Rankin, having come through the academy at Heart of Midlothian while Rankin was a youth coach there. "I think this is the fourth time we’ve worked together, I know exactly what he’s all about and the attributes and enthusiasm he can bring to the club," Rankin said. The head coach revealed Smith had phoned him for advice after his Scunthorpe departure, making a move to the Excelsior Stadium a natural next step.

Player background and family ties

Connor Smith's career path includes notable loan spells at Queen’s Park and Hamilton Academical before a permanent move to St Johnstone in 2024. He returned to Hamilton on loan last season before joining Scunthorpe. He is also a former Scotland youth international.

His connection to Airdrie runs through his older brother, Callum, who had two spells with the club. Connor consulted him before making the move. "Speaking to my brother, he basically said what a club it was, he loved his time here," Smith said. "And every time I’ve played here it’s been a really good atmosphere."

Smith added that Rankin's style of play was a major factor in his decision. "I love working under the gaffer," he said. "He’s been good to me since I was a kid and his way of playing is the way I like playing football."

Adding threat to the squad

Rankin believes Smith's arrival provides a needed boost. "He’s a talented footballer and his way of playing will be exciting," the manager stated. "He gives the team an added attacking threat." The signing comes as Airdrie United look to improve on a recent run of two defeats in their last five matches, including a 2-1 loss to Queen of the South last week.

The club announced the deal on September 10. Smith's experience in the Scottish leagues and his understanding of Rankin's methods are seen as immediate assets for a squad aiming to climb the League One table. Fans can see the full first-team roster, including the new addition, on the official squad list. His debut could come soon as Airdrie prepare for their next fixture.