Scotland midfielder John McGinn insists he is enjoying the best year of his life.
The 21-year-old linked up with the squad this week for the friendlies against Italy and France just days after helping Hibs end 114-years of Scottish Cup agony with a dramatic win over Rangers at Hampden.
McGinn is having to pinch himself at how his own campaign panned out after being named man of the match on his full Scotland debut in March’s win over Denmark.
And even though he could not help the Leith side achieve their main objective of reaching the Premiership, the former St Mirren playmaker insists this season is one he will never forget.
He said: “It’s been incredible, it’s been the best year of my life by far.
“The cup parade is a day that I will remember fondly for the rest of my life, it’s something that doesn’t come along too often.
“It gives me goosebumps to hear the fans chanting my name, it’s something you dream about when you’re a young boy.”
The former Scotland Under-21 captain has already played in an incredible 57 games for club and country this season but he has no reservations about linking up with Gordon Strachan’s squad.
He added: “When you get the chance to get into an international squad for your county, it’s something you don’t take for granted and don’t moan about – and I won’t be doing that at all.
“I’m delighted to be involved in the set-up and hopefully I can add another cap.
“I’ve got a couple of holidays booked. I don’t know if I’ll get a wee bit extra off after being away but it’s not something I’m going to moan about.”
Over 100,000 Hibs fans lined the streets of Leith for Sunday’s cup parade and McGinn insists the club must use their stunning Hampden victory as a launchpad for further success.
He added: “To be part of such a great club, I think you saw on Sunday with the parade how much potential it has.
“It we can get even a tenth of the fans that were out there to come along to Easter Road on a Saturday I think it will make a huge difference.
“It’s something we need to use as a springboard for success in the future.”
