Forgotten SPFL star helps St Pauli win promotion to Bundesliga

Scott Banks, forgotten Scottish star, helps St Pauli win 2. Bundesliga title after injury setbacks, ending 12-year wait for promotion.

Scott Banks, the forgotten Scottish star, made a triumphant return to the spotlight on Sunday as St Pauli secured the 2. Bundesliga title in a thrilling fashion, putting an end to their 12-year wait for a return to the German top-flight.

Hailing from Linlithgow, Banks rose through the ranks of Dundee United's youth system before earning a move to the English Premier League with Crystal Palace in January 2020. Unfortunately, a series of injuries limited the 22-year-old to just two appearances for the Eagles, leading to loan spells at Alloa, Dunfermline, and Bradford City.

Despite facing setbacks, Banks joined St Pauli on a season-long loan last summer, only to suffer a serious ACL injury just three months into his stint. However, his perseverance paid off as he made a remarkable comeback, coming off the bench to assist in the winning goal that secured the Bundesliga crown for St Pauli, edging out rivals Holstein Kiel.

While St Pauli had already secured promotion to the Bundesliga with a game to spare, their victory over Wehen Wiesbaden sealed their fate as champions. Banks' crucial contribution in the final moments of the game proved decisive, as Danel Sinani capitalized on his assist to secure the title for St Pauli, finishing just one point ahead of Holstein Kiel.

The Millerntor-Stadion club, featuring talents like Jackson Irvine alongside Banks, had been stuck in the second tier since their relegation in 2012. With Banks set to part ways with Palace this summer, the midfielder may have opportunities awaiting him in his homeland or abroad as he looks to continue his football journey.