The on-loan Hibs youngster has made a big impression on boss Ian McCall, who confirmed he will definately be on the teamsheet, after playing for just 20 minutes in his debut against Queen of the South on Saturday.

McCall said: "Damon is looking sharp plus he is quick and a good scorer, but most importantly, he is keen to do well.

"So many players aim to get into the first team but can end up back in the reserves. But Damon is determined to gain his place in the squad."
Gray (19) was called into the Firhill side to boost numbers with so many key players still missing and it is expected he will remain with the Jags until March 22.

McCall insists that the combination of the bad weather and the sending-off of veteran stopper Jim Thomson was to blame for the dour goalless draw against Queens.

He said: "The weather was shocking and the wind definately ruined the game. We should have done better but it was difficult to play when Queen of the South were down to ten men."

McCall also admits that Thistle will have to win the next few games if they are going to remain in the safe zone and avoid relegation.

He said: "We beat Clyde 2-1 at their ground the last time we met but then again they are fighting for their lives and if we don't win the next few games we could be in the same position.

"We want to finish near the top of the league and that in itself will be an improvement as it will be better than last year's result."

The club will also have the challenge of the rescheduled midweek game against Livingston which will now be played on Tuesday.

Long-term injury victim Kevin McKinlay will be sidelined for a few more weeks with his medial ligament injury while Liam Buchanan is still struggling to overcome a persistent groin injury.