Partick Thistle last night completed the signing of Belgian defender Frederic Frans on a contract until January.

The 25-year-old had spent the entirety of his career in his homeland with Lierse, before arriving on trial at Firhill 10 days ago.

At 6ft 4ins, Frans is an imposing figure and also brings formidable experience having been capped for Belgium from under-18 to under-20 level. He made 142 first-team appearances for Lierse, 45 coming in top flight.

"It gives us some extra strength and depth in an area where we were a bit light," said Alan Archibald, the Thistle manager. "He clearly comes with a bit of pedigree."