KEITH LASLEY believes Partick Thistle gaffer Alan Archibald's January transfer-window recruitment drive has made the Firhill side a far stronger outfit.

Archie moved with purpose to snap up veteran ex-St Mirren stopper Lee Mair, then added Chris Erskine from Dundee United, Lyle Taylor from Sheffield United, Prince Buaben from Carlisle and George Moncur from West Ham, all on loan.

So despite Motherwell handing out a 5-1 mauling to the Jags in their previous meeting on December 29, Lasley anticipates a close-run thing at Fir Park this afternoon when his Steelmen host the Maryhill outfit.

The Motherwell captain said: "Thistle deserve a lot of credit for the way they have recruited during the window. You look at the players they have added and they will improve them in every area.

"Prince Buaben for me is a great signing and will give them an extra dimension in midfield, while on his day Chris Erskine can give you all kinds of problems.

"Lee Mair has been brought in to add experience to the heart of their defence and clearly they have already tightened up.

"Lyle Taylor knows the route to goal and the Scottish game, from his time with Falkirk - he gives them the chance to go two up with Kris Doolan."

Well's last outing was three weeks back on January 22 - the 2-2 draw with Aberdeen - but Lasley is upbeat about the Steelmen's lay-off.

He said: "By the time we got through the Aberdeen game we had a lot of guys nursing knocks and strains as well as the long-term injuries. I feel mentally re-charged and physically very hungry for football.

"Partick play an open, attractive game and everyone at Motherwell is looking forward to this one."