Former Rangers forward Greg Stewart has opened up on his decision to step into coaching with Cove Rangers after suffering a major ACL injury.
Stewart, who recently returned to Cove Rangers as assistant manager, has been sidelined since undergoing surgery on his left ACL in January.
He was a Gers player from 2019 until 2021, winning the Scottish Premiership under Steven Gerrard.
The 36-year-old used the enforced break from playing to focus on his coaching qualifications before the opportunity arose to join Paul Hartley’s coaching staff at Balmoral Stadium.
“I had a bad injury in January and underwent a major operation on my left ACL,” Stewart explained to Indian outlet Revsportz. “It was a tough start to the year, but knowing I couldn’t play, I focused on getting my coaching qualifications done.
“A few weeks ago, I got the opportunity to join Cove Rangers as assistant manager. Since I am still doing my rehab, it felt like the right moment to step into the coaching world.
“I just love football, and this allows me to stay involved, help young players and pass on advice from my playing career.”
Stewart wants to continue playing career
Despite taking on his first coaching role, Stewart has not closed the door on a return to playing.
He insists he still has a strong desire to get back on the pitch once his rehabilitation allows it.
“I still have a huge appetite to play,” he said. “I love everything about the game.
“Whether I end up becoming a manager full-time later on or not, I want to be involved in football.
“It is completely different from playing, but working on the training ground and helping younger players improve has been a great experience over the last few weeks.”
Scottish players in India
Stewart also reflected on Lee Irwin’s move to Mohun Bagan, with the Scottish forward recently joining the Indian Super League side.
Having faced Irwin during his own playing career in Scotland, Stewart believes the striker can make an immediate impact overseas.
“I played against Lee back in Scotland when he was at Kilmarnock or Motherwell before he moved abroad,” Stewart said.
“Having played in different countries over the years, he will adapt quickly to playing outside Scotland.
“He is a quality player who will add real value to the squad and help them compete for trophies this season.
Stewart's new role marks the latest chapter in a career that has taken him from Scottish football to spells overseas, including with Jamshedpur, Mumbai City and Mohun Bagan.
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