Idle transfer speculation - well, it's that time of year again...

By Iain Hepburn on Nov 23, 08 07:34 PM in players

As the window approaches, the transfer talk around Thistle has started in earnest. Top of the list, apparently, is the mighty Jonny Tuffey - now Northern Ireland international goalkeeper Jonny Tuffey, of course - who is being linked with moves to Hearts, Hibs and Swansea in today's tabs.

If we're set to lose Jonny - and I hope to goodness we don't, if only to keep fatty Hinchcliffe on the bench - then Thistle can look for some serious cash.

We're obviously a selling club, as everyone is in these economically challenged days, but Jonny's an international class keeper, has performed heroics at Firhill and is under contract until the end of next season. So I would hope for at least a six figure sum if we're even considering flogging him off.

Likewise Liam Buchananananan, who Dundee United and Hibs are both regularly linked with. Paul Hegarty was apparently scouting Liam recently, so I'd not be surprised to see United move in for him. Again, I'd hope to see a decent sum recouped for him, and the board to spend well - ideally on another striker, with a bit of physical presence, Damon Gray is nowhere near the answer, while Lennon's pace is unfortunately not matched by his ability.

Sid's best sitting behind the frontman and providing that killer ball through, so someone he can feed with those nice touches and flicks would be key to Thistle continuing their good form.

Of course, in an ideal world we'd not sell either, and they'd go on to have even greater success at Firhill. But if we must start selling in January, then please Ian McCall, and please Coco the Clown, do not waste this chance to strengthen the side.