HARRY MILNE is relieved to have swapped the part-time game at Cove Rangers for a crack at full-time football with Partick Thistle – because he will no longer need to supplement his income by working behind a bar.
The 25-year-old, who was suspended for Saturday’s 2-1 win over Stenhousemuir but is expected to make his debut against Kilmarnock tonight, signed a pre-contract agreement with the Jags towards the end of last season.
The left-back, who completed a degree in international business while at Cove, has enjoyed the move from Aberdeen to Glasgow – not least because he can now spend his weekends chasing after opposition players, rather than inebriated punters.
“Making the transition from part-time to full-time has been a bit different but it’s nice to have one focus,” said Milne, speaking at Greaves Sports where the Thistle first team squad showcased their new home, away and goalkeeper kits for season 2022/23. “That lifestyle will help me develop my game further.
“I’m playing in a better league now with better players so I am really looking forward to it. I’m just eager to get going.
“I moved down with my girlfriend at the start of June – I’ve been in Aberdeen my whole life so far – so it’s nice to live in a different place. Glasgow is brilliant.
“I completed my degree last year but because of Covid, more businesses were laying people off than hiring. It’s difficult.
“I was just doing bar work [back home] which wasn’t really ideal – finishing your game on a Saturday then heading straight to the bar to work until 4am. It’s nice to have one focus.
“While I was at uni I had my part-time wage at Cove so that was enough to sustain me but after that I spent about a year behind the bar. Eventually Cove had to start paying me on a Friday night not to work! It was probably the easiest Friday I’ve ever had, sitting in the house getting paid.
“Fridays were a bit easier because I usually got away around 12 but it was more about being on your feet for eight or nine hours running after folk. You feel a bit leggy the next day.
“Being in a full-time environment, training every day, going to the gym, getting yourself in the right condition – I think that’s going to really help me.”
New signing Harry Milne was wearing the new Partick Thistle away kit for season 2022/23, now available via www.greavessports.com.
