Former Northern Ireland under-21 star Chris Turner has missed out on a dream move to Rangers — but has joined Partick Thistle.

The ex-Bohemians midfielder has signed a one-year deal with the Scottish First Division side.

Turner impressed Partick boss Ian McCall during a trial game for Rangers reserves against St Johnstone on Monday and despite being asked to stay for another week at Ibrox club, he chose to seal a deal.

The 21-year-old will join goalkeeper Johnny Tuffey, who last week received his first call-up to the Northern Ireland senior squad, at Firhill.

“I’ve been at Rangers for a few weeks hoping something was going to happen and after the match on Monday they asked me to stay on a another week, but I wanted to get back playing,” said Turner.

“Ian McCall was at the game and spoke to my agent afterwards.

“It didn’t take long to decide to sign because I need to get settled.“I haven’t been playing much lately and the move to Partick will give me the opportunity to get back to it and we’ll see what develops .”

But the Ballymoney man isn’t at all disappointed at the lack of an offer from Rangers.

He said: “The Rangers move would have been a dream, but I would have been in the reserves or loaned out straight away so the Partick move can be really good for me.

“If I’m playing regularly I hope to help them get into the SPL. I hope to use the move as a stepping stone, but want it to be beneficial for the club.

“Partick have been drawn against Rangers in the CIS Cup too which is great for everyone and hopefully there’ll be a shock in the air.”