Refactor middleware for better readability

**Description**
Currently config lacks proper sorting support.

**Proposed solution**
Add configurable sorting with sensible defaults.

**Priority**: Low/Medium

The issue names no files, tests, or middleware entry points. Start by locating the middleware configuration and any existing ordering logic, then determine how configurable sorting and its defaults should fit there. Done means sorting can be configured and sensible defaults are covered by tests.

Written by the indexing model from the issue text.