The Scotland Under-21 international has been out for the past five weeks after undergoing knee ligament surgery but only just missed out on being passed fit for Sunday's incredible 3-2 triumph over Celtic in the Scottish Communities League Cup semi-final.
The Paisley side's stunning Hampden performance was built upon two impressive displays in the centre of midfield from 18-year-old John McGinn and on-loan Newcastle youth Conor Newton.
But despite knowing his place in the March 17 final with Hearts - which comes only three years after the club were humiliated as they lost the 2010 final to nine-man Rangers - could well be blocked by those same two team-mates, 21-year-old McLean insists he was only filled with thoughts of delight after their against-the-odds win over the Hoops.
He told Press Association Sport: "It was tough sitting out the game but I'm delighted for the guys in the team.
"In the changing room beforehand, all the boys were pumped up for the match, but I was gutted to be missing out.
"However, it has worked out perfect and now we have a final to look forward to. It's not too far away and hopefully I will be back in time to be involved.
"I can't get frustrated by the fact there are other guys in my position if they help the club reach a major final.
"It will be hard work for me to get back in the team with the likes of Conor and John McGinn and Jon Robertson playing well.
"I only just missed out on this game but I'll be back in the squad for Wednesday's league game with Inverness, so there is plenty of time to get myself fit for Hampden."
McLean has been tipped with a move away from St Mirren Park, with npower Championship side Wolves rumoured to be among those considering a bid.
But with the January transfer window set to close on Thursday, the Buddies player is not expecting an imminent departure.
He said: "Am I happy to stay put for the time being? Yeah, I don't see why not.
"The last few transfer windows there has been speculation about my future. That is always going to happen but nothing has been put down in front of me or the club so I just try to forget about that."
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