BY IAIN COLLIN – @CCP_sport
GARY Locke has insisted his decision to let fans’ favourite David McGurn leave Raith Rovers was not a football one.
The 35-year-old ended an eight-year association with Rovers when he left to sign for Fife neighbours Cowdenbeath last week.
The former Morton keeper, who spent last season on loan at Stranraer, will still be granted a ‘testimonial’ by the Kirkcaldy outfit in recognition of his faithful service over the course of 210 games for the club.
And new boss Locke, who has recruited Aberdeen’s Aaron Lennox to challenge Kevin Cuthbert for the number one spot, is adamant it was McGurn’s inability to go full-time because of his day job as a lecturer made up his mind on the popular player’s future.
Locke said: “David was brilliant and I was just disappointed he didn’t want to go full-time due to work commitments.
“For me, it’s a position where we really need three full-time goalkeepers.
“So, that wasn’t really a football decision, it was more to do with his work commitments.
“He’s a fantastic guy and I’m just disappointed I didn’t get the chance to work with him, because he’s been great for the club.
“The good thing is he’s going to get a testimonial and he’ll get the send-off he deserves, because he’s been a great servant for Raith Rovers.”
