DAVID WILSON did not get his 15 minutes of fame last season, but the Partick Thistle youngster is determined to shine on the big stage this term.

In a campaign that saw him impress for the Firhill second string, it is a January afternoon at Parkhead that stands out for the midfielder.

Wilson replaced Aaron Muirhead for the final 10 minutes of a narrow defeat for Alan Archibald's side as he took his first tentative steps into the first-team arena.

His performances and promise were rewarded with a new deal earlier this month as he ensured he had another season to show what he can do.

And the 19-year-old is determined to prove he is worthy of more Premiership action to boss Archibald as Thistle bid for a successful second season in Scotland's top flight.

Wilson said: "I have signed my first pro contract and it is an exciting time for me.

"I made my first-team debut against Celtic at Parkhead last year and that was great.

"I always thought I would play. That is the best way to be, you need to be positive.

"It was amazing at Parkhead but it is all a bit of a blur now. I can't remember much about it.

"Having had that, it just makes me want it even more this season. I can't wait for the action to start.

"The manager is looking for experience in the team so it is hard for the young boys to break in.

"Last year, we needed experience and the younger boys couldn't get in because we were fighting to stay up, so hopefully there are more chances this year."

After putting pen to paper on a new Firhill deal, Wilson has wasted little time in getting down to business ahead of the big kick-off.

He is one of several Under-20 stars to join the first team at their Murcia training camp this week as the Jags kids look to follow Stuart Bannigan's lead and rise through the ranks.

Wilson said: "It is a massive pre-season for me. It is my chance to make the step up and get into the first team. I am looking forward to it. I want to show the manager I am good enough to play.

"I need to get a lot stronger so I have been in the gym a lot and working hard. I am looking forward to the rest of pre- season and hopefully I can play some games and prove I am good enough.

"It does give you confidence when you see Stuart coming through and playing. If he can do it, we believe we can do it. I watch the first team and look at how they train and play."