Transfer Talk – Partick Thistle
After a disastrous start to the season for the Jags, cut to a fine cord by injuries to half of their squad, we have looked at options to fill the gaps of a leaking Thistle side to get them back on track, dependant on outgoings this window, including Blair Spittal’s loan spell with Ross County hanging in the balance.
GLASGOW, SCOTLAND - SEPTEMBER 25: Partick Thistle manager Ian McCall arrives prior the Betfred Scottish League Cup quarter final match between Celtic and Partick Thistle at Celtic Park on September 25, 2019 in Glasgow, Scotland. (Photo by Ian MacNicol/Getty Images)
Dapo Mebude(19) Forward – Rangers (Short-Loan)
One of Rangers ‘Golden Boys’,Dapo, would be a major coup for McCall’s men after leading the line with a strong and pacey presence for Rangers Youth side in the UEFA Youth League. Dapo gained a special mention from UEFA’s media after his two assists and a goal in five matches. He made his senior debut on 19 May 2019, in a 1–2 away defeat against Kilmarnock in the league, however, has fallen out of favour since then after a disagreement during contract discussions.
Nathan Young-Coombes(18) Forward – Rangers (short-loan)
“One for the future” as explained by Rangers Assistant, Gary McAllister, ‘NYC’ has five goals in nine games for Rangers Youth side including four out of five in the UEFA Youth league. Paired with his goal against Clyde in the City of Glasgow Cup, NYC can evidently compete at this level and would bring an energy to help the Physical presence of Brian Graham.
Cameron Harper(19) Winger – Celtic (Short-Loan)
The American U’20 internationalist made his debut on Monday for Celtic after their recent COVID-19 outbreak and seemed to step up to the plate, getting into the right position for numerous opportunities and was unfortunate not to get on the scoresheet. Playing out of his natural position, Monday’s game showed Harper can play a versatile role and with talks of a contract extension, the American will bee keen to kick on and receive game time after being a stand out for the Colts this season, scoring two stunners against Thistle.
Ross Wallace(35) Right Midfielder – Free Agent
A midfielder with both bags of experience and ability, Wallace (if fit) would have a major impact in League 1 for the Jags. Recently released by St Mirren, the former Celtic and Burnley Winger will be keen to see out his career on a high, showing some of that £2 Million talent that he once was.
Danny Handling(26) Right Winger – Edinburgh City
The former Hibernian winger has been keen to reignite his career after dropping down the ranks. He has shown why he once was a key player for the Hibees this season with important goals and assists in all competitions. With the right manager and experience around him, we feel he has what it takes to get back to where he once was under McCall, just like many others have.
Jacob Blyth(28) Forward – Free Agent
A free Agent with experience in the Scottish Premiership for Motherwell, Blyth could be a cheaper option to provide back up for the rest of the season, having recently been released from the English lower leagues at Altrincham. At the age of 28 Blyth has stated he has still got plenty left in the tank, with Thistle fighting for top spot in League 1, surrounded by experience from the top of the game, this would be the perfect place for him to showcase his talent.
Youth Squad
Dean Watson(19) Winger –Thistle Weir
Recalled from his loan at Annan Athletic, Watson has shown Thistle fans in small glimpses from previous appearances that he is an exciting prospect, with his one-on-one and passing ability, Watson may well be given the chance he richly deserves, after years of hard work.
Gospel Ocholi(19) Forward – Thistle Weir
Ian McCall clearly has an eye for young Ocholi who has impressed for Thistles development squad and was rewarded with a place on the bench for Thistle’s boxing day crunch match v Falkirk. Okoli looks to be one for the future with his lightning fast feet and an eye for goal and could be called upon soon enough if he continues to impress.
“A leaking thistle side”?
Criticism of thistle this year is hard to avoid, but probably the only area McColl has sorted is the defence?