STUART BANNIGAN has hailed Paul Paton's performances in the Partick Thistle midfield – even though his counterpart is forcing him to look on from the sidelines.

Paton moved from his natural right-back slot to become an integral part of the Jags' midfield as boss Jackie McNamara attempted to fill the void left by Kyle Hutton's return to Rangers.

The 24-year-old has impressed in his new role alongside Firhill stalwart David Rowson, leaving Bannigan waiting in the wings for a chance to prove himself. The midfielder spent last season on loan at Ayr United, but has no intention of leaving Glasgow on a deadline day move in search of first-team football.

He said: "Paul has been playing really well. He has certainly been one of our best players over the last couple of months. All I can do is wait for my chance.

"I had a couple of games a few weeks ago, but I am out of the team just now. I need to try and get a run of games. It has been a frustrating season for me so far, but hopefully I can get a run between now and the end of the season. That has to be my main aim. I won't be going back out on loan. Fortunately, I am signed up until next year, so I just want to do my best for Thistle."

Despite putting together a decent a run of results that saw McNamara lift the manager of the month award for December, the first weeks of the New Year have proven frustrating for the Firhill boss and his players.

The Jags have slipped to narrow 1-0 defeats to Queen of the South and Hamilton, and have to wait until a trip to Livingston on Saturday week for another chance to claim their maiden win of 2012.

Bannigan said: "We have to start winning on a more regular basis and be more consistent. We have done well so far, but we have dropped points in games where we shouldn't have and not been able to go on a run.

"It is about trying to get that run of games together and getting further up the league. Look at how well Dundee have done recently.

"They have gone on a great run and they are right up there challenging. It will be tough for us but we are confident that we can keep moving up.

"With us not having a game for two weeks, the manager has organised a couple of bounce games to keep us ticking over."

lJags fans have the chance to be crowned the Mastermind of Maryhill at the Partick Thistle Quiz Night on Friday, February 10. Teams of 10 can test their knowledge against their favourite Firhill stars, with a prize of £500 up for grabs. Tickets for the event cost £10 and can be purchased by calling 0871 402 1971 or by e-mailling ami@ptfc.co.uk