Ayr Utd have completed a season‑long loan for 19‑year‑old striker Owen Stirton from Dundee United, giving the young forward a chance to play week in, week out in the Scottish Championship.

What does the loan mean for Ayr Utd?

The move adds a forward who scored nine goals in 14 games for Montrose last season, a record that suggests he can find the net at this level. Manager Gary Naysmith will have a fresh attacking option as Ayr sit 7th in the Championship with 39 points after 36 games, a recent run of LLLWL that leaves them 38 points behind leaders St Johnstone. The club’s goal tally sits at 38 scored and 47 conceded, so any boost up front is welcome.

How will Stirton fit into Naysmith’s plans?

Naysmith praised Stirton’s hunger, noting that the striker “feels confident doing what he does best – scoring goals.” After a brief, unproductive spell at Airdrieonians, Stirton returned to United and featured in the last four games of the season, scoring once in a 2‑1 League Cup loss to Kilmarnock. At Ayr, he is expected to start regularly, potentially lining up alongside J. Bonnar, the club’s top scorer this season with one goal in a single appearance.

What does this mean for Dundee United’s squad?

Dundee United manager Jim Goodwin sees the loan as a development tool, comparing Stirton’s situation to that of Sam, another youngster needing game time. Goodwin believes the loan will keep Stirton sharp while freeing up squad space for other options. The striker made 17 appearances for United last season, three of them starts, and will return with valuable Championship experience.

What’s next for Ayr Utd?

Ayr’s next fixture is a home clash against St Johnstone, a match they lost 0‑1 on 1 May 2026. With recent form of five straight defeats (LLLLL), the club will be eager to turn the tide. Stirton’s arrival could provide the cutting edge needed to convert draws into wins and climb the table. The loan runs until the end of the season, giving both clubs a clear timeline to assess his progress.

Ayr Utd remain in a precarious position, but the addition of a hungry striker may be the spark that changes their fortunes as the Championship race heads into its final stretch.