Aaron Sinclair: Jackie McNamara influence was huge factor in new Partick Thistle deal

Apr 12 2012

PARTICK THISTLE ace Aaron Sinclair insists Jackie McNamara was a crucial factor in his decision to sign on for the coming seasons.

McNamara started planning for the future by tying prize asset Sinclair down on a new contract extension until 2014 earlier this week.

The defender has been the subject of transfer speculation with English Championship sides Cardiff City and Southampton both keen to take him south.

So Sinclair signing a deal to remain at Firhill is a major coup.

The former Montrose star's fortunes looked to have nosedived in Tuesday's 1-0 defeat at Morton when he was carried off with a suspected broken ankle although it's now thought the injury is more likely to be ligament damage.

However the 21-year-old is delighted to have secured a new deal with the Jags and revealed learning off fellow full-back McNamara was a key factor in his decision.

He said: "I'm really enjoying my time at Thistle and I’m happy to agree an extension to my contract.

"The gaffer's been great with me and we've got a really good bunch of boys in the dressing room.

"Obviously there’ll be a few changes in the summer, but I think if we can get a good start next season then we’ve got a great chance of doing something.

"It’s been a good few days for me with my birthday and the new contract and hopefully between now and the end of the season we can go on a decent run and give the fans something to sing about."