PAUL GALLACHER reckons the future is bright for Partick Thistle's budding keepers.

The Jags goalie guru has spent recent months working alongside new Scotland call-up Scott Fox and youngsters Ryan Scully, Marc Waters and Scott Basalaj.

The 34-year-old has struggled to make the breakthrough into Alan Archibald's first team this term but he is relishing his role as part of the Firhill coaching staff.

He said: "When I came in, obviously, I wanted to play myself. It has been a good battle.

"Foxy has reacted to the fact that I am putting pressure on him and he has risen to the challenge and been fantastic.

"From my point of view, I am disappointed that I am not playing. But, from a coaching perspective, I am delighted with Foxy and how well he is doing.

"Coaching is what I want to do once I finish playing. I want to stay in football and being able to combine coaching and playing at Thistle is great.

"I have had a couple of games with the Under-20s and stepped in at St Johnstone and feel I have done reasonably well.

"I have got a great group of goalies here with Foxy, Ryan and young Marc and Scott.

"There is a good mix and good quality there. They are all thriving at the moment which is really pleasing."

While Fox has a strong grip on the Jags gloves, youngster Scully has also had his share of first team football this term.

The 21-year-old has impressed for SPFL League One promotion hopefuls Dunfermline and Gallacher is delighted with the shot-stopper's progress.

He said: "Playing games is so important for young players. Ryan could have stayed at Thistle and played the odd reserve game but, for someone of his age, that is not enough.

"I know how things work at Dunfermline and the management team and it is a good place for him to go and play. He is playing at a good level and playing week in week out, which is fantastic."