Paatelainen looking forward to Partick clash
Dundee United manager Mixu Paatelainen insists they can approach their Ladbrokes Scottish Premiership match against Partick with genuine confidence of securing victory.
The Tangerines head into their latest league clash desperate for only their second win under Paatelainen on the back of last weekend's 1-1 draw away to 10-man Kilmarnock.
A win would narrow the gap on the teams above them in the table and their manager believes they have to be optimistic about their chances of doing so.
Paatelainen said: "It's a game we're looking forward to.
"Partick Thistle have had some good results recently and are an attacking team.
"But we have to focus on ourselves and I think gradually we are getting there, although it will still take time.
"There were some aspects of our play last weekend which we could be quite happy about.
"But we have to still improve in certain areas and if we do then hopefully we can get the result we're looking for."
Meanwhile, United defender Callum Morris is fit again after a long-running Achilles injury, but this game could come too early for him.
Japanese goalkeeper Eiji Kawashima has been given the green light for his work permit but isn't likely to sign until next week.
Long-term absentees Paul Paton and Ryan Dow remain sidelined.
Partick manager Alan Archibald has no fresh injury worries.
However, Robbie Muirhead will be unavailable to play against his parent club in the clash at Tannadice.
Steven Lawless and Abdul Osman faced late fitness tests ahead of last week's postponed game against Motherwell but should both now be fit, while long-term casualty Christie Elliott remains on the sidelines with a back injury.
Thistle missed out on the chance to build on a fine 5-2 win at Kilmarnock when last weekend's clash fell victim to the weather.
Defender Callum Booth said: "We had been on a good run, and a home game against Motherwell was a chance to get another three points.
"We were disappointed that the game was off but, when you looked outside, you knew straight away the game was going to be in doubt with all the rain and wind.
"It probably was a good thing that it was called off in those conditions.
"We will soon see on Saturday if we can pick up where we left off. Confidence is still high."
Source: PAR
