The former Leeds United goalkeeper, Dave Stewart, has died aged 71.
Dave Stewart only played 55 times for Leeds but it was across two periods. One under Don Revie (along with the great players of that period) and subsequently through the doldrums via Clough, Armfield and Adamson. He is most famous for being between the posts in the disappointing 1975 European Cup Final when regular keeper, David Harvey was unavailable through injury.
Now, the reason I post this obituary is that I interviewed Dave for the book ‘Where Are They Now’ The idea behind that book was to speak to and not rehash players who made Leeds what they are today. Dave entered the spirit of the book straight away coming forward with jocular references of working as a carpet fitter and selling pub glasses. It might have been all beneath Dave but to his credit he joked about the glory days as much as he did the new career he had as a stone-setter as a jeweller in South Wales.
Dave ended up working for a jewellers called Spencer Morgan, and spent his spare time after retirement playing golf and painting – he was a keen artist.
If you ever stood and witnessed Dave play for Leeds you are better than me at appreciating his value to the team over five years. You must remember though that Don Revie never signed just anyone. Overall, Dave struggled to get first-team appearances but pushed Harvey and Mervyn Day for the number one position week-in, week-out.
Rest in peace.
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