Saturday 6th February, 2016 at 2:00pm
Ptfc.co.uk caught up with Manager, Alan Archibald ahead of a Scottish Cup tie against Dundee United. We began by reflecting on Tuesday’s win over Motherwell.
“It was massive to get the win on Tuesday night. It was a six pointer with Motherwell being around us in the table. All the games against sides close to us are massive and we’ll take the confidence from the result into Saturday’s game. “
There was more contract extension joy for Alan as Callum Booth was the latest to sign on for next season.
“Callum’s flew right under the radar for us this season. He’s played every single minute of every game which is something that is pretty rare these days. He has been outstanding for us this season and we’re delighted to have him tied up for next season. He’s been a great player for us in an attacking sense as well as being very solid defensively.”
It’s a rest from league business as Thistle look to reach the quarter finals for the first time since 2007/08 and Alan has fond memories of his cup exploits as a player.
“The Scottish Cup is always a great tournament to be involved in. We’ve seen in the last few years that so-called smaller clubs have done well in the tournament and we’re looking to make sure that this year is the year we take our chances and have a run in the competition.
“I was lucky enough to play in the semi-final in 2002, and I’m wanting my players to have that same experience as I did. We know we face a very difficult task to make it into the quarter finals but we are confident that we can go to Tannadice and progress. “
Thistle were scheduled to play United last weekend before the weather intervened, and Alan Archibald’s side will be well prepared when they take to the field tomorrow.
“Dundee United will still be on a high after their victory over Kilmarnock and they’ve now had a two week rest so we know they’ll come at us right from the start. We’ve watched their last few games and had the chance to assess their strengths and weaknesses to bring about a game plan that we think will give us the best chance of success against them. Having said that we’ll still have to be ready right from the first whistle to match their work rate and energy. “
Finally, we concluded with some team news.
“Aidan Nesbitt and Antonio German both come into the squad for tomorrow. Antonio had a good run out in the Development League on Wednesday, playing 60 minutes, so he’s getting back to match sharpness. Aidan played with Celtic’s development squad on Monday so he’ll be ready to go. Mustapha Dumbuya missed out on Tuesday through injury, but we’re hopeful he’ll make it for Saturday. Gary Fraser and Mathias Pogba both appeared as substitutes on Tuesday and neither suffered any reactions, so they will remain in contention for Saturday. “
