David Martindale: Livingston’s loyalty in me paid off with promotion

Livingston manager David Martindale believes the club’s loyalty to him has paid off after the Lions secured their return to the Scottish Premiership through the play-offs.

A dramatic 4-2 second-leg comeback win clinched a 5-3 aggregate win over Ross County as Livingston bounced back to the top flight at the first time of asking after relegation this time last year.

The club stuck with Martindale when many others in his position had been relieved of their duties, and the Livi boss believes that decision has been vindicated with how the campaign has ended.

“Last season was difficult, but the club stood by me,” Martindale said.

“It was difficult, and I think the managerial turnaround in football in general is really hard to build success.

“The club stuck by me last year, but I think I had credit in the bank from what I’d done brilliantly.

“That continuity has paid off. We are the first Livingston squad in history to win promotion and win the Trust Trophy, which are two massive moments in this season.

“I’d like to think that character, ability and resilience are traits that I carry into training every day, and hopefully that rubs off on the players.

“I think they showed that tonight. They showed real personality, belief and resilience, and I’m so proud.”

Ross County manager Don Cowie refused to be drawn on what the future may hold for the club in the Championship, but did remain adamant that he wanted to stay in charge and try to guide them back into the top flight.

“It’s obviously raw right now – really sore,” he said.

“We’ll need to have those conversations, because we’ve been waiting to see what league we’re in, but what I do know is, as much as I’m hurting right now and as sore as it is – and I accept the last few months have not been good enough – I’ve got huge belief in myself and motivation that I can get this club back to the Premiership.

“David Martindale is a prime example of that. This time last year, getting relegated with Livingston and responding by winning the play-offs this year.

“Those conversation will take place. It is really raw and sore, but the support I’ve had in this really challenging spell from the chairman Roy MacGregor and chief executive Steven Ferguson has been incredible, and also my family because it has been a tough time.

“I’ve been in football a long time and it can be tough. It makes you stronger, more determined and more resilient.”