Forward Steven Lawless hopes a solid pre-season campaign will help him shine in the Premiership next term.

Lawless enjoyed a decent first season in Scotland's top flight last time out and put pen-to-paper on a new deal at Firhill after helping Partick Thistle retain their Premiership place.

A series of niggling injuries too often halted his progress as he ended the campaign with five goals to his credit.

And the 23-year-old is determined to make an even bigger impact this time around.

Lawless said: "Last year was a bit up-and-down for me but it was my first real taste of the league and I was pleased with how I did overall.

"I am really looking forward to the new season now. I want to get myself in my team and hopefully score a few more goals this year.

"I started the season well and then had a bit of a dip. I was carrying an injury. I know this year not to put myself in that position again.

"I know what to expect from the league this year and that will help me. I was feeling a problem in my ankle and I ended up having it for the full year, I went over on it in certain games and it kept coming back.

"The gaffer gave me a break round about the halfway stage and when I came back in I felt good. Hopefully I am over it all this year and I can play and score more regularly."

Thistle will continue preparing for the new campaign with a friendly against Fleetwood Town this afternoon.

Boss Alan Archibald put his squad through their paces in a bounce game against Rangers in midweek and will see them in action against Sunderland on Wednesday night.

And Lawless is feeling the benefit of his match action so far this summer.

He said: "I played the last half-hour or so against Rangers and it was good to get on and get a run out.

"I am feeling good and fit. I have come back fit this year.Hopefully I can push on now and do well for the team.

"It is all geared up for the start of the season and we are all in good shape."

One of Lawless' main rivals for a starting spot this term is forward Ryan Stevenson after his switch from Hearts.

And the former Motherwell kid is pleased to have Stevenson on board as Thistle look to improve on their 10th-place finish last time out.

He said: "It wouldn't bother me if someone else came in, it just means you need to keep improving to get in the team.

"Stevo has come in and he is a good player. He is a bit of a weirdo but a good guy!

"Some of the songs he puts on in the changing room aren't the best but we are letting him away with that just now.

"He had a great season last year with Hearts and has played at this level for a number of years so his experience will be crucial for us."