Partick Thistle manager Mark Wilson attributed midfielder Ben Stanway’s surprise decision to sign a one-year contract extension to the player’s commitment to the club’s promotion ambitions. The 21-year-old academy graduate had been expected to depart during the summer transfer window following a productive campaign that produced 12 goals.
Stanway had attracted interest from multiple Scottish Premiership clubs throughout the previous season, leading Wilson to believe his departure was virtually inevitable when discussing the situation in January. However, persistent dialogue between the club and the player, particularly involving assistant manager Alex Rae, created an opportunity to retain his services. Wilson expressed relief at the outcome, noting that Stanway’s performances had been sufficiently impressive to generate external interest.
The midfielder’s connection to Thistle runs deep, having joined the club’s academy at age 11. Wilson suggested that achieving promotion during Stanway’s tenth year at the club would represent a significant personal milestone. The manager also highlighted the player’s appeal among supporters, noting that he has earned a song from fans while demonstrating a strong sense of purpose and determination that serves as an example to younger and experienced teammates alike.
Thistle are pursuing a return to the Scottish Premiership after narrowly missing out on promotion when they lost the play-off final to St Mirren. Following an opening weekend victory away to Greenock Morton, the club will host promotion rival Livingston on Friday in a match broadcast live on BBC Scotland.
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