Coyle's trusted lieutenant over the years, Stewart is excited about the Indian challenge and helping the club bounce back from the recent slump.
"I am really excited to be joining Owen (Coyle) at Chennaiyin. Hopefully we can bring some of our experience to the players and team, and help the club achieve success again. Owen and I love a challenge, and it will be exactly that with Chennaiyin in a competitive league like the Hero ISL. We have a talented squad that creates a lot of chances. Now we need to ensure we convert those chances and keep winning consistently," said Stewart prior to his arrival in India.
Stewart began his playing career in Scotland in 1987 with brief spells at Hearts and Kilmarnock before moving to Airdrieon in the second-tier two years later. He went on to become a vital member of the squad, helping them qualify for the Scottish top flight in 1991. Stewart won the Scottish Challenge Cup twice and finished runners-up in the Scottish Cup as many times in over 300 appearances for Airdrieon over two spells at the club.
Stewart's managerial career began as player-manager of Airdrie United (formerly his former club Airdrieon), where Owen Coyle also came on board in the role of player-coach. During his time there, Stewart led Airdrie to top flight promotion and a Scottish Challenge Cup final.
From there on, Stewart has been Assistant Coach to Coyle at St. Johnstone in the Scottish Premier League followed by Burnley and Bolton Wanderers in England; winning promotion to the Premier League with Burnley in 2008-09 through the play-offs.
Then after assisting Coyle in the English Championship with Wigan Athletic, Stewart joined him at Major League Soccer side Houston Dynamos as well. On Coyle's return to Europe, Stewart continued as his deputy at Blackburn Rovers followed by Ross County. Stewart's latest assignment was that of Caretaker Manager at Scottish Championship side Ayr United earlier this year.
( With inputs from IANS )