Partick Thistle have confirmed that 21‑year‑old goalkeeper Josh Clarke has joined Doncaster Rovers on a short‑term loan, with a permanent contract slated for January. The move comes just weeks after Clarke switched from Celtic to Firhill, and it triggers a clause that allows him to leave if a club of a certain level makes an offer.

Why did Clarke leave Partick now?

Clarke arrived at Partick on a pre‑contract in February after a loan spell at Celtic last summer. He kept 14 clean sheets in 42 appearances as the Jags finished second in the Scottish Championship, but fell short in the promotion play‑off final against St Mirren. Sporting director Ian Baraclough explained that the clause was built into the deal to protect the player’s future: if a club like Doncaster, playing in England’s League One, showed interest, the move could happen immediately. The Northern Ireland Under‑21 international had already earned senior call‑ups in March and June, so the chance to test himself in English football was hard to ignore.

How does the transfer affect Partick’s season?

Partick sit 2nd in the Championship with 66 points from 36 games (17 W‑15 D‑4 L) and a recent form of DDDWD. They have scored 53 goals and conceded 36, leaving them 17 ahead of rivals. However, they sit 11 points behind leaders St Johnstone, so losing a first‑choice keeper could tighten the race for promotion. Manager Mark Wilson admitted it was “a real shame to lose Josh,” but reminded fans that strong performances attract attention. He added that the club still has depth in goal and will rely on the backup keeper to keep the clean‑sheet tally ticking.

What are the terms of the deal?

Doncaster Rovers will pay an undisclosed fee for the loan and have the option to make the transfer permanent in January. The club has already announced that Clarke will sign a long‑term contract once the permanent move is triggered. The arrangement mirrors a similar pre‑contract that Partick signed with right‑back Ben McPherson, who also left after a season‑long stint at Firhill.

What’s next for Clarke and Partick?

Clarke will travel to Doncaster for his first training session later this week and is expected to feature in the upcoming League One fixture against Portsmouth. Meanwhile, Partick will look to their backup keeper and defensive line to maintain momentum. The Jags’ next league game is against Ayr United, where they will need a win to keep pressure on St Johnstone. Fans will be watching closely to see if the club can replace Clarke’s influence between the sticks while still chasing that elusive promotion spot.

League standing: 2nd in Championship, 66 pts, 17W‑15D‑4L from 36 games, recent form DDDWD. Goals this season: 53 scored, 36 conceded (+17 goal difference). Title race: 11 points behind leaders St Johnstone. Last result: St Mirren 1‑0 Partick (2026‑05‑25). Recent form (last 5): 2W‑2D‑1L (LDWWD, most recent first). Top scorer this season: T. Watt with 0 goals in 1 appearances.