McGowan, who has been at Hearts since 2008 has struggled to break into the first-team this season, making only two substitute appearances this campaign.

The 21-year-old, who spent most of last term on loan at Scottish First Division club Ayr United, has not played for Hearts since September.

The Adelaide-born defensive midfielder joins Partick Thistle on an emergency short-term loan deal until March 30.

McGowan told heartsfc.co.uk: "I think this will be a good move for me and hopefully I can start playing regularly every weekend."

Partick are currently fifth in Scotland's First Division.

McGowan's brother Dylan, who is also on the books of Hearts, is currently on loan at Second Division club East Fife along with another Aussie Matthew Park.