Gary Naysmith will become Ayr United’s new manager. The former Scotland full-back will take the helm once he completes the Scottish Championship play-off campaign with Stenhousemuir.
Naysmith’s Stenhousemuir Success
Naysmith, aged 47, has guided the part-time side to the brink of promotion. Stenhousemuir finished runners-up behind Inverness Caledonian Thistle. Stenhousemuir drew the first leg of their semi-final against Queen of the South 1-1.
Ayr United Appointment
Ayr have announced that Naysmith has agreed a three-year contract. He will be joined by Stenhousemuir assistant Brown Ferguson. Ayr chairman David Smith spoke about Naysmith’s enthusiasm and skillset to take the club forward. Smith also noted their ability to outperform budget.
Ayr were seeking a new manager after Scott Brown exited in March. Brown’s side slipped out of the promotion race after a nine-game run without a victory. They eventually finished seventh.
Naysmith’s Managerial Career
Naysmith’s managerial career began with East Fife. He also had spells with Queen of the South and Edinburgh City. He took over at Stenhousemuir in 2023, leading them to their first-ever league title to win promotion to League 1. He has since followed that with back-to-back promotion play-off campaigns.
Stenhousemuir were in the running for the title and automatic promotion this season right up until the final day. Naysmith was nominated this year for the PFA Scotland Manager of the Year award.
Chairman Dan Wharton said that Naysmith came in and transformed what was possible, achieved promotion success and leaves the club in its highest-ever league position.
Play-off Implications
Should Stenhousemuir beat Naysmith’s former club, Queens, they will face either Airdrieonians or Alloa Athletic in the play-off final. Airdrieonians or Alloa Athletic lead their semi-final 1-0.
Naysmith’s focus remains on Stenhousemuir’s play-off campaign before he makes the move to Ayr United.