Partick Thistle sign midfielder Martin Woods

The midfielder has joined Partick Thistle until the end of the season following the news that Stuart Bannigan is set to miss at least four weeks after undergoing knee surgery.

Archibald already has a lengthy injury list this season, with Christie Elliott, Abdul Osman, Callum Booth and Mustapha Dumbuya all out with long-term problems, and could only name six substitutes in the 0-0 draw with Hamilton on Tuesday.

Woods, who has had two spells with Ross County, impressed during training with the club prior to signing but is unlikely to be rushed into action.

I need to have a discussion with the manager, but it would be a big ask (to play against St Johnstone on Saturday),'' he told Jagzone.

I've not played since the end of May, so it would be a big ask for Saturday, but if the manager asks me, I'm eager to get involved.

But if he thinks I need to get some fitness in, I would agree with that.''

The former Leeds and Sunderland man said that although he is still behind his teammates in terms of fitness, he expects to be up to speed quickly and is targeting the international break.

I keep on top of my fitness, I'm not too bad but still a wee bit behind the boys,'' he said.I can catch up quite quickly, I'm naturally quite fit but the boys have been playing games so with the international break coming up, it will allow me to get a little bit of fitness and get on with things.''

He added: I can't wait for December because I feel I'll be right up to speed by then.''

Manager Archibald added: Martin has trained with us a couple of days already this week and we bring him in to provide us with cover for that vital area in the middle of the pitch as we unfortunately lose Stuart Bannigan for four to six weeks while he recovers from the minor operation to clear up some minor issues in his knee.

Martin has a wealth of experience and, while he is lacking in fitness, I expect him to be ready to play his part sooner rather than later.'

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