MANAGER Ian McCall pledged his future to Partick Thistle this week when he signed a new deal.
Talks reached a successful conclusion on Tuesday evening as the club and the gaffer agreed a three-year deal.
McCall's contract came despite reported interest from SPL clubs Falkirk and Motherwell, both believed to be admirers of the manager who g
uided the Jags to second spot in the FIrst Division last season despite limited resources.
A Firhill spokeswoman said: "Ian McCall has agreed terms and will be staying at the club."
McCall's challenge now will be to secure the resources to make another title challenge while retaining star players such as midfielder Gary Harkins — reportedly a target for big spending Dundee — and goalkeeper Jonny Tuffey.
The Northern Irish keeper's profile rose even further over in the past week when he gained his second international cap and his first start for his country against World champions Italy in a 3-0 friendly defeat in Pisa on Saturday.
Despite losing, Tuffey gained plaudits for his performance — not least his dramatic penalty save from Giampaolo Pazzini.
The 22-year-old, who was subbed with Northern Ireland two-down, said: "I have to say that it was the best night of my career.
"Not just starting a senior international but the fact it was against the World Champions as well was just a fantastic experience.
"It's obviously never nice to lose goals, no matter the opposition, but both were decent finishes. I was disappointed to give away the penalty but I made up for that by saving it. And it was nice also to make a few more saves."
Meanwhile, the Jags have paid tribute to Dumbarton captain and former Jags player Gordon Lennon, who died on Sunday following a car crash.
A club spokeswoman said: "All at Partick Thistle were deeply saddened to learn of the tragic passing of Gordon Lennon.
"Gordon joined Thistle from Albion Rovers in the summer of 2007 and after a spell on loan with Stenhousemuir joined Dumbarton, with whom he won last season's Third Division championship, in January 2008.
"The thoughts of all at Firhill are with Gordon's family and friends and all associated with Dumbarton Football Club at what is a tragically sad time."
