Partick Thistle complete double swoop to sign Steven Lawless & Aaron Muirhead

May 16 2012 By Gordon Parks

Steven Lawless joins the Jags after three years at Motherwell

PARTICK THISTLE have snapped up former Motherwell striker Steven Lawless and Annan defender Aaron Muirhead.

It’s more positive news for the Jags just days after they announced St Mirren legend Hugh Murray had agreed terms to sign on at Firhill next season.

Thistle boss Jackie McNamara has been busy bolstering his side for their First Division title assault and the arrival of two youngsters will provide quality options for the next campaign.

Lawless was released at Fir Park earlier this month after failing to break into the first team but the 21-year-old has bags of potential.

The capture of Muirhead will also bring a goal threat as the defender notched nine goals this season.

Both players will hook up with current Jags stars Mark McGuigan and Conrad Balatoni at Firhill after they signed new two-year deals last week.

Ex-Hearts defender Balatoni said: “I’m delighted to get my future sorted. As soon as I came here last season I loved it.

“They’re a great bunch of lads in the dressing room and the gaffer and Simon Donnelly are great to work under.

“We’re playing some great football. We have a good team here and we’re capable of doing something next season.”

McGuigan was signed in March whilst playing for his university side and he said: “Scoring my first goal was really special – I just jumped straight in to the crowd to celebrate.

“I didn’t realise I’d get in trouble for it!

“The fans have been amazing since I signed and I really appreciate it.

“Hopefully I can repay their faith next season by scoring a few goals.

“I think Kris Doolan and I can form a great partnership up front.”

Meanwhile, Partick have released Tommy Stewart, Kieran Burns and Gavin Griffin.