Caley Thistle defender Josh Meekings has paid tribute to manager John Hughes for his role in supporting the Englishman through his Scottish Cup semi-final ordeal.
Meekings was at the centre of controversy during last month’s 3-2 victory against Celtic, with his handball from Leigh Griffiths’ header going unpunished by referee Steven McLean.
Had Griffiths scored, the Hoops would have gone 2-0 up but Caley Jags surged back to claim a famous victory secured by defender David Raven’s extra-time winner.
In the days that followed the game, Meekings was cited for preventing a clear goalscoring opportunity through deliberate handball by the SFA’s compliance officer Tony McGlennan.
A suspension would have kept Meekings out of Saturday’s final against Falkirk but the 22-year-old was cleared to play after successfully pleading his case to a three-man panel.
Meekings reckons manager Hughes was influential in helping him through the affair and said: “The manager was great. He just kept telling me to keep concentrating on my football and working hard in training. He said I couldn’t affect anything off the pitch and the whole thing would take care of itself.
“He had my back the whole way, as did all the coaches and players.
“It was a difficult experience but I have learned from it. I’m just glad it was all sorted out and I can concentrate on the final.
“I’m delighted I am available to play and I am determined to enjoy it. It will be the biggest day of my career and maybe even more special given what’s gone on.”
Meekings is determined to help the Highlanders secure the first silverware in the club’s 21-year history and added: “It’s a great chance to play at Hampden. We have an excitement building, with the trophy having been in the town.
“The semi-final was a great experience. A lot of our supporters travelled down and there will be even more for the final which will be a great occasion.”