Partick Thistle injury blow as striker Steven Craig is ruled out for four weeks

Sep 20 2012 By Gordon Parks

Steven Craig Image 1

PARTICK THISTLE’S title bid has suffered a blow after new signing Steven Craig was ruled out for at least a month.

The striker, who arrived on loan from Ross County earlier this month, had to be replaced after just 10 minutes of the weekend win at Livingston due to a thigh injury.

But after kicking off his Jags career by scoring three goals in his first two games, the former Aberdeen hitman is gutted at the news he’ll be sidelined for four weeks after a scan revealed the extent of the damage.

He said: “It’s disappointing that it’ll probably keep me out for the next few weeks but I’m hopeful I will be back sooner rather than later.

“I’ve really got to say a massive thanks to the club and the medical team for getting me a scan so quickly.

“I got injured on Saturday against Livingston, and I was scanned Monday morning – first thing. The problem was diagnosed immediately.

“I’ve got off to a good start here and the boys are flying.

“They proved that yet again on Saturday against Livingston. It was a great result and hopefully they can continue that this week at home to Cowdenbeath.

“I’m really enjoying it here at Firhill, they’re a great bunch of boys and I’ve settled in quickly. I just want to get back playing as soon as possible.”

The Jags have stormed to the top of the First Division with six wins out of six and fellow striker Christie Elliot insists he can be an able deputy for Craig in the striking department.

He said: “Steven has been doing great for the club but unfortunately he picked up a wee bit of an injury. But that has given me a chance.

“Hopefully I managed to prove to the fans and the club that I want my position back in the team. Hopefully I can get a few goals and keep my position in the team.

“I’m happy with my performance. I thought my link- up play with the players was good. I did lack a goal but I’m still young .

“I’m sure I’ll learn from all the lads. I’m picking up things from them all the time.”

The battle for a spot in the team is pretty fierce at the moment. A fact that Elliot was quick to acknowledge.

He said: “The competition for places, especially in my position, is really tough.

“We’ve got players like Kris Doolan and Steven who has just come in and has loads of experience.

“Now I’ve got my chance and I need to make sure I grab it with both hands.”

EXCLUSIVE VIDEO WITH THISTLE STRIKER STEVEN LAWLESS, HERE.