Nikica Jelavic urges new Rangers hero to emerge 12 years after his world stood still at Hampden

It seemed to cross the line in slow motion. Off the post, back OUT of the goal, then inexplicably curving, creeping into the net. A split second felt like an eternity.

At that moment, Nikica Jelavic’s world stood still. The silent pause was ended by thunderous noise from the Rangers end at Hampden. And the Croatian striker had won the 2011 League Cup for the Ibrox club. Amidst the celebrations no one – including Jelavic – could have envisaged what was coming next for Rangers.

A financial implosion, starting again in the bottom tier of Scottish football – and a decade devoid of silverware. Jelavic’s strike in the 2-1 Old Firm win over Celtic was the last time Gers laid hands on the trophy. He’ll never get fed up talking about one of the best days of his career on Glasgow’s southside. But ahead of today’s repeat in the Viaplay Cup Final, Jelavic has called on Michael Beale’s squad to create new memories.

He wants someone else to feel the elation he did 12 years ago when his shot eventually trundled over the line. Jelavic is 37 now, retired and coaching Lokomotiv Zagreb’s Under-19 side.

After their game today he’ll have the quickest shower of his life to ensure he’s in front of a TV screen for kick-off. And by full-time he’s praying that someone will take his mantle of scoring Rangers’ last League Cup winner.

In an exclusive interview with MailSport , Jelavic said: “I enjoy talking about my goal but it’s time for someone else to be the hero.

“Rangers have always had heroes. There is always a new one to come forward, that’s normal for a club like this.

“I’m just glad to be part of Rangers’ history. It makes me happy. If someone had told the players back then, including myself, that Rangers wouldn’t win this trophy again