DECLAN McDAID has set his sights on a first-team berth at Partick Thistle this term after getting his season off to a flying start in Spain.

The Jags youngster netted two goals in the 3-1 win over FC Pinatar on Wednesday night.

Now he is pushing for a starting spot when Alan Archibald's side face English Championship outfit Brighton this evening.

McDaid enjoyed a decent first season at Firhill last year after making the switch from Morton to join Scott McKenzie's Under-20 squad.

And now the forward is determined to take the next step in his career as he bids to increase his goal tally and catch Archibald's eye ahead of the big Premiership kick-off next month.

"Obviously it was great to get the two goals and I think I did quite well after I came on," he told ptfc.co.uk

"These games are really all just about getting match fitness and sharpness back and I felt pretty good on both counts, so hopefully it's onwards and upwards from here.

"I think it's fair to say that the first goal wasn't my best effort but I'll take any goal that comes my way!

"It has been a great experience coming away and all the boys have been brand new.

"It's down to me to prove that this is where I belong and to carve out a chance for myself to impress.

"I'm fit and I feel like I can definitely keep up with the more senior boys.

"I have been struggling with the heat though, the first few days it was really tough but I think we're all beginning to adjust to it now.

"My aim for this season is to be in and about the first team and, if I can keep myself fit and injury free, I don't see any reason why that can't happen."