Perth -born midfielder David Wotherspoon has made history by becoming the first player from St Johnstone to grace the field at the World Cup.
The 32-year-old from Bridge of Earn was subbed on for Reading winger Junior Hoilett in the 76th minute during Canada’s final Group F game against high-flying Morocco at the Al Thumama Stadium in Doha on Thursday.
There was even a cameo for the winger's famous ‘Spoony Chop’ which temporarily wrong-footed Morocco and PSG full-back Achraf Hakimi.
Canada's final group fixture did end in disappointment however as the North African's ran out 2-1 winners to top the group with Croatia joining them in second place.
Canada were already eliminated from the tournament before kick off and are yet to win a game at the global showpiece.
Despite the disappointing campaign, 'Spoony' will be delighted on a personal level with club manager Callum Davidson and Canadian-born Saints legend Nick Dasovic regarding him among the club's all-time greats.
Davidson said: “There have not been many St Johnstone players at World Cups over the years so it’s a huge achievement for David and for the club.
“The fact he’s from Perth and a fan makes it even better, in my book. You look at his performances for us over the last 10 years and the three trophies he’s won.
“For me, he’s right up there with the greatest players in St Johnstone’s long history. That’s taking nothing away from other players who have played for the club but what he’s done over the years has been remarkable.
“And being from this area, this is his hometown team, just elevates it and makes it even more special for him and his family.”
Dasovic, who spent six years at McDiarmid Park and bagged 63 caps for Canada, said: “David deserves to be in the group because he did a lot of work beforehand in qualifying to get the team there, so he’s been a big part of the squad.
“He’s not played a lot because he has some really decent players in front of him.
“But it’s great to see David and a St Johnstone player in the World Cup.
“It’s something I didn’t manage to do so it’s great to see a kid from Perth who supported St Johnstone as a youngster being involved."
