‘Amazing memories’ for Callum Booth as he leaves St Johnstone

Callum Booth thanked St Johnstone for the best moments of his career as he became the second member of their 2021 cup double-winning team to depart on a permanent basis this week.

The 32-year-old joined Saints in September 2019 and went on to be part of arguably the greatest feat in the club’s history when he started both the League Cup and Scottish Cup final victories over Livingston and Hibernian respectively, just three months apart.

After spending the second half of the season just finished on loan at Spartans, it was confirmed on Friday that Booth will be following Chris Kane – who was also part of the glory of 2020-21 – out of the exit door upon expiry of his contract.

Injury problems restricted the former Hibs and Partick Thistle left-back to just one appearance for the Perth club over the past two seasons, although he did play regularly for Spartans after joining the cinch League Two club on loan in January.

“It was a hugely successful time and I’ve only got fond memories,” Booth, who made 79 appearances in total for Saints, told their official website.

“My appearances probably don’t reflect the time I was at the club. I had a few unhappier times being injured and that part of it was not great, but it was still amazing times for me.

“I have some really amazing memories. Probably the best I’ve ever had in football – without doubt winning the two cups and the European games. I was actually watching the Galatasaray highlights with my little boy the other day.”

Reflecting on the double cup win three years ago, Booth added: “We had a good team, don’t get me wrong, but even now you think: ‘How did we manage to do that?’

“Everything just seemed to click into place those last few months. So many players better than me have played in Scotland for years and not won a cup, never mind two.

“It was such an amazing achievement that will be remembered for years to come – and rightly so.”