Dundee United boss Jackie McNamara is hoping his side will reap the benefits following the return of Gary Mackay-Steven and Stuart Armstrong from Scotland duty.
The duo were unused subs as Gordon Strachan’s men beat Norway on Tuesday night but “GMS” was awarded his first senior cap when he came on against the USA at Hampden last week.
McNamara believes that was a fitting reward for a player who has worked hard this season on the less glamorous aspects of the game.
The manager said: “For Gary to get a cap for Scotland should hopefully do wonders for his confidence. It will give him another wee lift going into Saturday’s game against Partick Thistle. His attitude is great and I’m delighted for him.
McNamara added: “Gary has added the wee things to his game. I’m not saying he didn’t do it before but he’s now tracking back more when he doesn’t have the ball and is working ever so hard for the team, as well as concentrating.
“The second goal recently against Motherwell proved that, the way he chased the ball down. I’m delighted for him that he’s getting back to his best because he’s got a great attitude and wants to do well.
“Stuart will benefit as well from being away with the Scotland squad so this can only help the club.”
McNamara was speaking at United’s St Andrews training base but he had expected to be through at Hampden to help Nadir Ciftci plead his case at an SFA disciplinary hearing.
However, that was postponed on Wednesday and the manager was able to focus fully on the team’s preparation for the Thistle game.
And he revealed he is hopeful that no matter what the outcome of Ciftci’s disciplinary case, the 21-year-old will soon sign an extended deal with the club.
McNamara said: “Nadir loves it here and we love having him at the club. So there are just a few wee things that need to be ironed out.
“We want to keep these lads together and there’s another couple we’re looking to tie up, such as Mark Wilson who is up in January.”
The last time United faced Partick in the League Cup in September, they ran out comfortable 4-1 winners.
Despite that result, McNamara saw enough from his former club that night to know his present squad of players can take nothing for granted on Saturday.
However, he believes that if they can recreate the same high standards the last time they played at home against St Mirren when they thumped the Buddies 4-0, then there will only be one winner in the clash with the Jags.
McNamara said: “If we can keep up the same level of performance from our last home game against St Mirren, then there is no doubt we will win the match.”
Gavin Gunning is a slight injury doubt after picking up a knee problem in training.