Brian Graham says he could play on for another four or five years after the 34-year-old extended his Partick Thistle contract until 2024.
The experienced striker's end to the 2021/22 Championship season was marred by illness as Ian McCall's side fell short in the Premiership play-offs, but they have eyes on promotion again this term. Their campaign kicks off in the Premier Sports Cup against Stenhousemuir on Saturday with a boost arriving pre-match with Graham's extension. He has netted 32 times in 74 Jags appearances.
Also working as the manager of Partick Thistle's Women's side, the former Hibs forward had offers to move on to pastures new this summer. One proved appealing but eventually a decision to stay at Firhill was taken. Speaking after signing a contract extension with Thistle which commits him to the club until the end of season 2023/24, he said: "I am delighted to get the deal done.
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"It was pretty simple negotiations. I am really happy here and have been since I got here. Some interest threw me some curveballs but I was never really determined to leave.
"You know what the gaffer is like, it's not a pay rise, more a pay-cut! There was one offer that was different and very appealing. But I still have a lot left in my legs. Me and my family are happy at Partick Thistle so it was a no-brainer."
Graham does feel fitter than ever and that gives him the confidence he can have an extended playing career: "I want to play as long as possible.
"When I see my fitness results in pre-season, I have no doubts I can keep playing for the next four or five years. That's what I plan on doing so we will see how it goes. It's totally changed nowadays.
"When I first started at Morton, you would go back after six weeks off and the boys looked a bit heavier. I had a week off then I was training Monday-Wednesday-Friday.
"You have to do it now as the game has totally changed. It's more professional and there are more athletes in the game."
Brian Graham was wearing Partick Thistle’s now famous Kingsley kit, which will go on sale later this year. The Jags home and away kits for season 2022/23 are available now via www.greavessports.com.
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