St Johnstone legend Murray Davidson has opened his heart on missing the club’s Betfred Cup final triumph against Livingston.
His Hampden dreams were dashed by a calf injury – and it was the second time he had suffered final heartbreak with Saints after missing the 2014 Scottish Cup triumph over Dundee United at Celtic Park through injury.
Speaking to the BBC, Davidson admitted he had mixed emotions following the 1-0 victory that gave the McDiarmid Park club the second trophy in their 137-year history.
The midfielder – who lifted the trophy alongside his team-mates – said: “I said to them I didn’t need to go up, I haven’t played.
“They made me go up and it means a lot – I feel part of it.
“I’m devastated not to make it today but I’m buzzing for my team-mates and everyone connected with the club.
“2014 was probably easier because I’d ruptured my patellar tendon in January and round by round I wasn’t part of it.
Semi-final hero Shaun Rooney powers in a header and @StJohnstone lead in the Betfred Cup Final! 💥
And just look at how much it means to Callum Davidson and his players 🔵 pic.twitter.com/aBe8D90qOr
— Premier Sports 📺 (@PremierSportsTV) February 28, 2021
“This season I played in the group stages and the semi-final and was a big part of it this time.
“It was touch and go until midweek – another week and I’d have been 100% (fit).
“Those days in the middle of the week were the hardest two or three days of my football career.
Tough times for St Johnstone star
“I was devastated for my family and my wee girl, it meant to much to them.
“I’m big and ugly enough to get over it. I’d be lying if I stood here and said it didn’t bother me but I’m delighted for everyone connected with the club.”
Davidson hailed manager Callum Davidson for his handling of the situation.
He said: “The gaffer was great. We took it day by day until the middle of the week.
“It was my decision because it wasn’t right. I felt it. I didn’t want to go out there 20% fit and let my team-mates down.
“There wasn’t really a decision to make because I wasn’t ready.
“For two or three days after it I was hurting and I was upset but it helps that we won.
“I’m so disappointed for my family though because there’s a bit of me that feels like I’ve let them down, but that’s just me.
“Anyone that misses a big game like this will be disappointed.
“I’m absolutely buzzing for the guys though.”
