Tributes to Stuart McKenzie

Jim Leighton

Former Scotland and Aberdeen goalkeeping legend Jim Leighton:

“He’s one of the best goalies going about in Scotland, never mind just in the lower divisions. Stuart was by far the best in the Highland League before going to Montrose for a couple of seasons.

I was a little surprised Cove Rangers managed to get him back, but it was no shock to see Stuart then show he was still the best at Highland level. I’ve always felt Stuart is a keeper who could have played at the very highest levels if he had been given the opportunity. Cove are fortunate to have him, especially with Stuart now at the age when you tend to see keepers reaching their peak.

He doesn’t make loads of flashy saves, Stuart doesn’t need to because he uses his experience well to make sure his positioning is spot on. I also like the way he commands from the back and his distribution is among the best I’ve seen from any goalkeeper.

Another big attribute is his concentration levels, which you need when you are playing for Cove and don’t get a lot to do because they tend to dominate games, particularly at home.

It’s important for Cove to have strength at the back now that they are playing at the higher level. They certainly have that with Stuart, it’s an old cliche but he will guarantee them a few more points over the course of the campaign because they can trust him to do what’s required when it’s needed most.”

Ray Charles

Former Cove Rangers keeper and goalkeeping coach Raymond Charles:

“I’ve known Stuart for many years now, I was on the coaching staff when he first joined Cove Rangers and he has done a brilliant job.

People might find it hard to believe now, but he was actually a wee bit too quiet for his own good when he came to the club. That meant Lee Windrum, our Irish keeper who was totally the opposite, tended to be chosen before Stuart at that time. He never complained though, Stuart continued to work hard at training to make sure he was ready to step in when the chance arose.

I really enjoyed the time coaching him and I’m delighted he has gone on to enjoy so much success in his career. He helped Cove win a host of honours at Highland League level and has also played a huge part in their climb up the SPFL.

Stuart has looked after himself really well too, so , I can see him carrying on for a good few years. His sheer presence is one of his most important assets. Stuart is a big lad, he has bulked up from the time when we signed him as a youngster, so he commands his area, especially at set pieces. His kicking, whether from hand or on the deck, is incredible too. It is a real asset when you want to be more direct with attacks.”