PARTICK Thistle’s new recruit Jack Storer feared his bad-boy reputation had ended his career at the age of just 20.

But this former hothead, at least that's what he hopes, turned hotshot on Tuesday night when he scored a spectacular volley during his side’s 2-1 Betfred Cup win over Morton at Firhill.

The Englishman was tipped for big things at Birmingham City, his hometown club, but he left there in May after failing to make any real impact.

This wasn’t down to a lack of quality, but rather his inability to see past the red mist when it came down, which his former manager at St Andrews, Steve Cotterill, insisted had held back the striker.

Speaking earlier last season, Cotterill said: “Jack has had a couple of opportunities and maybe blown up on a couple of opportunities is putting it nicely.

“I really, really like him and I hope that whatever happens with him he can go and carve out a career for himself in football because he has obviously got ability.

“I think it would be fair if I said he’s a bit hot-headed on a few occasions, which I don’t think helps. But I like him, I think Jack is a nice lad and I hope that he can go on carve out a career for himself in football.”

Cotterill did think Storer had blown his chance, as did the player.

However, Thistle have taken a gamble on him and, so far, it’s working out.

Storer said: “I ended up at Thistle because I got asked by Gerry Britton to come in for a trial after I got released by Birmingham. I was here for about a week, played three games and then was offered a contract.

“Again, that was the great feeling. I didn’t think I was going to ever get a contract back in football again because of my past at Birmingham.

“I honestly didn’t think I would get a club.

“So for me to get a contract is a huge boost and shows the gaffer has faith in me. I have really enjoyed my time at Thistle so far. I just can’t wait to carry on and kick on.”

The gaffer, Alan Archibald, has been happy with his one his new man has settled in.

He said: “Jack does play on the edge but he’s been a good find for us and I hope there is more to come. He has been with us most of the pre-season and we’re happy to have him in because at the moment we are light in terms of players.

And the man himself was delighted to open his account with what might end up Thistle’s goal of the season.

Storer said: “I was over the moon to score my first ever professional goal. It was a really proud moment. A real dream come true.

“I have been waiting for it. I do have a shot like that in my bag. I knew what I wanted to do as I made a move to hit it and I knew it was going in. That is one of the best feelings in the world.

“My nickname as a kid was Storer the scorer.

“I don’t know how I’m going to top it but hopefully there is a few more to come.”