Keown’s debt to Archie over new Firhill deal

HE SAID: “I’m sure we’ll be flexible enough to cope with Liam going. We played a back three at times last season and sometimes four at the back with me and Dan (Devine) playing alongside each other.

“We all had a great relationship at the back, and me and Dan are obviously still there, and Barts (Adam Barton) can always play between us which he has done at times.

“We know as a defensive unit that we all need to step up now and show more leadership and take more ownership of what we’re doing at the back to make sure that we’re no worse off than last season.

“I think Liam will cope well down there, and it’s also great for the club when a player attracts such interest.

“Liam was great last season and I think he’ll cope absolutely fine with that league, and I think we’re all excited to see how he gets on.

“If clubs in England aren’t watching the games in Scotland, then they aren’t doing their jobs properly.

“From what I’ve seen, there is a lot of interest in the league from down south and that’s been proven with Liam’s move.

“Every player wants to maximise his potential and get to the highest level they possibly can.

“For me, this is a great opportunity at Partick Thistle where every player and the club can carry on moving forward.”