The 24-year-old winger was a regular in the Jags team in the first few weeks of the campaign.

But, as Thistle struggled to convert their decent showings into points, Erskine found himself kicking his heels on the bench instead of running at defenders.

He has been given the chance to impress in Partick's last two Irn-Bru First Division outings, coming on against Queen of the South and Ross County as he bids to turn his form around.

A late Highland cameo last Saturday was rewarded with a goal as the former Kilbirnie Ladeside forward netted in the last minute to snatch a battling draw for the Jags, and Erskine is targeting a starting berth once again.

He said. "I started the first couple of games, but I didn't play well, so the manager was quite right to drop me because there were guys who deserved their chance to play.

"But I am getting there. I am feeling a lot better in training, so hopefully I can get back in the starting line-up as soon as possible and do enough to stay there."

The return to form of Erskine would be a massive boost to boss McNamara as he attempts to guide Thistle up the First Division.

The Jags are now unbeaten in three games after their draw at Victoria Park moved them to eighth in the table.

And Erskine is confident things will continue to improve, with the Jags' attacking arsenal capable of hitting the goal trail.

He said: "I think we are looking good just now. Christie Elliot has come in and done really well for us. The manager couldn't have asked much more of him than to score in his first two games for us.

"All the guys are more than capable of taking chances and getting a few goals this season."