Partick Thistle close to agreeing deal with ex-Hibs striker Tam McManus

Aug 16 2011 By Fraser Wilson

PARTICK THISTLE boss Jackie McNamara is hopeful of concluding a deal with ex-Falkirk and Hibs frontman Tam McManus ahead of this weekend's clash with Hamilton.

The Jags today released Martin Grehan from his contract at Firhill in a bid to free up the wage bill for new recruits.

McNamara is currently running the rule over two forwards - one of whom is experienced goal-getter McManus, 30, - as he bids to cure his side's lack of threat in attack.

The Firhill boss said: "We have a couple of trialists in this week. Tam McManus has come in and I am hopeful we can get something sorted out by the end of the week.

"I know Tam well from playing against him and he makes life very difficult for defenders. He is a good finisher and has lots of experience.

"I want to bring in another striker to put pressure on Dools and Tommy Stewart and maybe add another wide player if I can."

Grehan, meanwhile, leaves Thistle after a disappointing 18 month spell.

The 26-year-old frontman, signed by Ian McCall in January 2010, has struggled to establish himself as a first pick, scoring just three goals in 39 appearances.

Despite scoring the winner in the 2-1 win at Ross County in the penultimate game of the 2009/2010 season, Grehan's Thistle career failed to take off and he regularly found himself as an unused sub.  

McNamara said: "Martin is a good lad but we both agreed it would be better for himself that he moves on to find regular football.

"He came here from part time football and it's not quite worked out for him. He needs games and we can't guarantee him that.

"Hopefully he can get fixed up somewhere else."