I got fantastic Fraz all wrong
Cockerill’s praise for lock as McKenzie pens two-year deal
RICHARD COCKERILL has admitted he was wrong to write off Fraser McKenzie’s Edinburgh career.
The coach owned up as the giant lock was handed a massive double boost.
McKenzie was given the go ahead to make his comeback from long-term injury in tonight’s crucial Pro14 clash with the Southern Kings at Murrayfield as he clinched a new two-year deal with the club.
Cockerill said: “When I arrived here a year and a half ago I didn’t think Fraz would last very long.
“But he has been great. He has worked very hard to keep his job and to get over a serious knee problem.
“He’s a really good club man who can play at the highest level. He has become one of the mainstays of our squad, a good core member of our team and highly valued.”
McKenzie is relishing the chance to lead the Gunners into battle with the South African side and can’t wait for the clash.
He said: “I’m thrilled to be staying and I can’t wait to get back on the field with my mates. It is an exciting period for the club and I’m looking forward to playing my part in bringing success.”
Meanwhile, Edinburgh coach Cockerill has backed shadow hooker Dave Cherry to be an instant hit in the wake of his promotion to the starting line-up in place of Stuart McInally, who is rested for the clash with Kings.
And he claimed that Cherry could even be a shock call-up for Scotland’s Six Nations plans.
Cockerhill said: “At the age of 28 Dave has taken the long route to get his opportunity.
“He’s very dynamic, very physical and has a good edge about him.
“That is why I’ve picked him in front of Ross Ford.
“There are injuries in the Scotland set-up and there is potentially a chance for someone to stick their hand up and get a march on the others.
“He’s got his opportunity this weekend and I hope he takes it.”
Following the back-to-back league triumphs over Glasgow, the Gunners will be aiming for a clear-cut win over the South Africans tonight.
However, Cockerill expects nothing other than a tough test against the Springbok side.
He said: “Kings have improved and they are a real threat. They’ve got some real pace in that back line.
“And when teams don’t show them due respect they cause problems. We know they’re going to come here, be physical and get stuck in. But so are we.”