Damon Gray pleads with Hibs to extend loan deal at Partick Thistle

Last updated : 20 March 2008 By Steve Forbes
damongrayinter.jpg picture by 1875steve

On loan Hibs youngster Damon Gray has today pleaded with Hibs boss Mixu Paatelainen to extend his stay at first division side Partick Thistle.

Gray, 19, has been a revelation since his move along the M8 to the Jags on a one month emergency loan deal.

The Hibees youngster put Thistle in the lead in last night's 1-1 draw with Rangers in the Scottish Cup Quarter Final at Ibrox, his fourth goal in four appearances since his move to
Glasgow.

On fire Gray has also grabbed a double on his debut against
Clyde and a goal against Livingston since he joined Thistle at the beginning of March.

The Hibernian youth product has pleaded with Hibs boss Paatelainen to let him stay at Thistle if he isn't going to get first team football at the Hibees, he said:

"It's up to Hibs and Partick Thistle now.

"But I really want to stay for the replay. I want remain at Firhill until the end of the season and then go back to Easter Road and play for the first team.

"In the summer my aim would be to return to Easter Road and hopefully challenge for a place in the first team.

"I knew at the start of this season that it would be difficult for me to break into the side, so going on loan was a good option for me."

Partick boss Ian McCall is also hoping Mixu can be persuaded to let the young-gun remain at Firhill, he said:

"I spoke with Rod Petrie today and he was going to speak to Mixu Paatelainen.

"Rod's been very accommodating and fingers crossed something will happen.

"We hope Mixu will agree that Damon's getting great experience here.

"He's only 19, and he certainly has a chance in the game.

"He's a very good natural finisher, and as good a striker as I've worked with."


Thanks once again to Alan Rennie and the Hibernian Interactive team for the use of the photo.

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