Michael Higdon hopes his season will be remembered for being Scotland's player of the year rather than his subsequent arrest.
The Motherwell striker was arrested over an alleged assault less than three hours after being named PFA Scotland player of the year on Sunday night following a vote among his fellow Clydesdale Bank Premier League players. The 29-year-old was released without charge early on Monday morning, with the fate of the case now in the hands of the procurator fiscal.
Higdon told the Scottish Sun: "Honestly, it's still the best night I've had as a footballer. It's a career high and that's all I'm thinking about, rather than any negatives. I hope other people see it like that too. I've had a great season and that's what I hope people remember."
Police confirmed Higdon had been arrested at a nightclub on Ingram Street in Glasgow city centre.
It is understood the Liverpudlian was involved in an incident outside the Corinthian nightclub involving several security staff. Police officers were driving past the nightclub at the time and subsequently arrested Higdon on suspicion of assaulting a bouncer.
The former Crewe trainee expressed regret for getting caught up in the incident, which happened after he shared his special moment with his father, other family members and team-mates at the awards dinner at Glasgow Hilton Hotel.
"I'm annoyed at myself for getting myself into a situation like that because it's not me," he said. "I'm not the type of lad who goes out clubbing or to bars. I'm a country pub type of guy. I should have known better than getting into that kind of situation."
Motherwell, who have made no official comment on the incident, will now have to hope that any negative publicity does not put Higdon off signing a new contract when his current deal expires in the summer.
The club were hopeful of persuading the former Falkirk and St Mirren forward to sign a new deal despite interest from potentially more lucrative options outside of Scotland.
Higdon is sure to receive a warm ovation following his accolade when Motherwell play Ross County on Sunday in their final home match of the season and the club will hope that helps maintain their chances of keeping the striker.
Source: PA
