McBurnie shrugged off his snub by national boss Steve Clarke to score a dramatic stoppage-time winner against Middlesbrough in the Championship play-off final.

When Yu Hirakawa’s cross was spilled by Boro keeper Sol Brynn, the 29-year-old – who had headed against the crossbar in the first half – was left with a £200million tap-in.

“I am happy he is not at the World Cup because he needs a really good rest,” said Jakirovic.

“He scored more goals than all the rest of the strikers in Scotland, but I’m glad he gets a rest.”

Having made his name with Swansea, McBurnie spent five years with Sheffield United in 2019 before a surprise switch to Gran Canaria with Las Palmas last season.

Jakirovic admits had circumstances been slightly different, he would never have been able to land the Yorkshire-born frontman last summer.

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“We signed signed him two days before the first game but I first spoke with him in June, I think, so three months before he signed,” said Jakirovic.

“I think we got lucky. If Chris Wilder had been Sheffield United manager at the start of the season, he wouldn’t have come here as he is his football father. I am very happy he did.

“He has the experience in the Championship but I saw in the play-offs, he handled pressure easily. He’s ready for these type of games. He doesn’t need to be captain to lead, and the group really likes him.”

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It was an emotional day all round for those in amber, with captain Lewie Coyle dedicating the win to his father who died suddenly in 2022.

Tearful owner Acun Ilicali, who before the match vowed to take legal action if his side did not win in the wake of the Southampton ‘Spygate’ saga, called it “the best day of my life”.

The Turkish media mogul then promised to send his players on a trip to Las Vegas to celebrate.

Middlesbrough, given a second chance after losing to Southampton in the semi-finals before Saints were thrown out for spying on them, must lick their wounds and go again.

“We have to pick ourselves up and work harder to improve,” said boss Kim Hellberg.

“A lot of credit to the players and how they handled these two weeks. It’s been exhausting in so many ways. Back and forth, it’s been tough.

“I’m proud of my players; how they fought through the season. How we handled ourselves, how we stand up for what is right and how we respect the game.”