Partick Thistle may be forced to reshuffle their squad for this afternoon's Championship match against Inverness after Mark Wilson said sickness has spread through the group.
Wilson said the issue comes on top of a few minor knocks, leaving Thistle light on bodies at a time when they are trying to protect a three-point lead at the top of the table. The club have already had to manage their squad carefully in recent weeks, and Wilson said the current situation is another reminder of why depth matters during the winter months.
Why the squad shortage matters
Wilson explained that Partick Thistle built a 20-man senior squad specifically to cope with the demands of November, December and January, when injuries and illnesses tend to mount. He said the club had seen this kind of problem before, recalling how one sick player last season quickly led to others being affected.
That is why the manager was keen to stress caution. He said anyone showing sickness has been told to stay away and be sensible, adding that one bug can wipe out a squad if it spreads.
For a team at the top of the Championship, the timing is not ideal. Partick Thistle are in a strong position with a three-point lead, but a reduced squad for a key fixture against Inverness could mean changes to the matchday group and possible opportunities for younger players.
Who could miss out
Wilson said he still needs to assess one or two players, but he was clear that the group is not at full strength. Dan O'Reilly is among those unavailable after the Morton game, with the defender still dealing with a knee injury. Wilson said O'Reilly will miss Saturday's match.
He also indicated that younger players could be added to the bench if needed, depending on how the squad responds after Friday's session. Rather than speaking about a traditional fitness test, Wilson said the real check will come when the team sees how the players react on Saturday.
For Partick Thistle, the concern is straightforward: illness and minor injuries have reduced the options available just as they prepare for an important Championship fixture. That does not change the table position, but it may change how they approach the game at Firhill.
