James Penrice future of Partick Thistle, says Alan Archibald

Eamonn Brophy (left) celebrates after equalising for Hamilton making it 2-2. Picture: SNS Group

The left-back was given his first start at home in the final Ladbrokes Premiership game of the season after making his debut against Dundee United in midweek and he caught the eye with a fine performance.

With only 20 minutes played Accies forward Eamonn Brophy, pictured, had levelled twice for the visitors, the first time from the spot, after Kris Doolan and then David Amoo had headed Thistle in front and chances came and went at both ends.

Thistle finished ninth and Archibald, looking towards next season, was encouraged by Penrice, among other youngsters at the club.

He said: “He was brilliant. He is 17 years old and has great composure, a lovely touch on the ball and he is confident.

“Physically, he has to develop but he will do, and we will work with him, but he has a chance. We don’t want to push him too much but you can see he has a bit of quality.

“There are a few more coming through, like Kevin Nisbet, who has a lot to offer. We have a decision to make on him, whether we send him out on loan for more experience or keep him with the group.”

Hamilton player-manager Martin Canning, whose side finished the campaign in tenth place, also looked ahead to next season and was encouraged by 20-year-old Brophy, who was twice denied a hat-trick by the woodwork in the second half, and 19-year-old midfielder Greg Docherty.

Canning said: “I thought Eamonn’s all-round performance was excellent along with young Greg Docherty in the middle of the park. They are talented players. Greg hit the ground running. He has been involved in most games and played a big part in the season, with Eamonn in the latter part, and hopefully he can kick on.”