Rangers loanee Glenn Middleton played a key role for St. Johnstone yesterday as they became the first non-Old Firm side to win a Cup double in 30 years – and admits it was a “special moment” for him after a tough few years.
Middleton has been on loan with the Perth side since January, impressing for Callum Davidson’s side, as he looks to force his way into the first-team plans at Ibrox.
Botched loan stints at Hibs and Bradford didn’t do him any favours but he’s shown real signs of progress at St Johnstone and the Scotland under-21 has loved every minute of his time in Perth.
After being handed a surprise start, Middleton put in an impressive performance before he saw his late penalty saved by Hibs keeper Matt Macey.
While the Saints will now celebrate their best-ever season, Middleton will be thinking about what comes next when he returns to Rangers in the summer.
“It’s a brilliant group. I’ve loved it from minute one, being here,” Middleton told BBC Scotland immediately after the game.
All the lads welcomed me in and I think you just seen there that the celebrations show how together everyone is and I’m just delighted.
“I was delighted to start the game, but either role that I played today whether it would’ve been starting like I did or coming off the bench I was just happy to be involved.
I’ve just loved it and today is a special moment for me.”
Middleton only managed one appearance for Rangers this season – the League Cup win over Falkirk – and it will be interesting to see whether he gets a chance to impress over pre-season.
The Scotland under-21 star has shown in the past he is capable of competing for a place at Ibrox – but is now looking at his last real chance to prove he deserves a Rangers future.
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