Partick vs Livingston preview - Thistle duo doubtful

Partick could be without Kyle Hutton and Paul Cairney for their home clash with Livingston.

Hutton and fellow midfielder Cairney both missed training this week due to illness.

Firhill manager Jackie McNamara also revealed Scott Robertson is doubtful because of a hamstring injury and David Rowson is struggling with an ankle problem.

McNamara will continue with Paul Paton in a new role as a holding midfielder.

He said: "Paul has moved from full-back into that role in our last couple of games and done well as he reads the game well and that has helped with our defensive side of the game.

"We still need to improve up front as we are creating chances but not taking them."

Livingston have striker Rory Boulding banned.

Manager Gary Bollan is also concerned about the availability of defenders Jason Talbot and Jonathan Brown, who are struggling with knocks, while top goalscorer Iain Russell is a doubt after going down with a virus.

There is some good news for the Lions squad, though, as Cameron MacDonald and David Sinclair have been included after injuries.

Bollan said: "This will be a real test for us as Thistle are probably still aggrieved at the 2-1 win we had over them at our place when they played really well.

"I went down and watched them at Ayr in Wednesday night's goalless draw and learned very little due to the atrocious conditions they played in."