Thistle No.1 Scott Fox puts contract talks to back of mind as Raith come calling

Dec 24 2010

Ian McCall

GOALKEEPER Scott Fox says he is open to talks about extending his deal with Partick Thistle - but for now he is focused on picking up as many points as possible over the festive period.

The Jags welcome high flying Raith Rovers to Firhill on Boxing Day desperate to avenge a 4-0 opening day drubbing in Kirkcaldy.

Ex-number one Bryn Halliwell endured a difficult day between the sticks on that occasion and never really recovered his form leading to the signing of Fox in October after his release from administration-hit Dundee.

The 23-year-old has been a reassuring presence for the six matches in which he has featured for Thistle while Halliwell has been told he is free to find a new club.

And with Fox's short term deal ending on January 14 there is a pressing need for Jags boss Ian McCall, pictured, to fix the former Celtic youngster up on a longer deal.

Fox, who is still in dispute with Dundee after being made redundant, said: "I'm hoping to get my situation with Dundee resolved quickly so I can get a clear picture of what I am going to do.

"I've only signed for Partick until January 14th. The manager has said he's interested in keeping me and we have spoken about it.

"I'm interested in being here but I need to get everything sorted in my head about what's happening at Dundee so I can move on.

"I need stability and knowing I am playing regularly for Thistle makes the decision easier for me."

McCall hopes to have veteran defender John Robertson available after a six-week injury lay-off as Thistle look to stretch an unbeaten home league record to five matches.

Conrad Balatoni and Chris Erskine missed training earlier in the week but both should be okay to face John McGlynn's side.