Even as a massive fan of Big Kev who appreciates his talents and recognises his achievements over the last ten years, I'm still somewhat on the fence with this.
There is no doubt in my mind that Kevin Maher has been one of Southend's most consistent players during his time at the club, and he has always been one of the first names on the team-sheet for every manager we've had while he's been here. What's always impressed me is that, even when he's been off-form, he's still never shirked his duty - always looking to receive the ball from his colleagues, and always finding space to do so.
When Kevin finally had the right players around him during our promotion campaigns from League Two and League one, he was immense. In my opinion, he was as much a part of our success at that time as the likes of Eastwood, Goater, Prior and (yes) Flahavan.
But will he be remembered as a true Southend Legend?
For me, the nature of a legend is in its celebration once it has gone. You can look back on the legendary Chris Powell with pride. You can talk of the legendary Stan Collymore who made such an impact in such a short period of time. You can even talk about the legend of Freddy Eastwood who started his debut hattrick within 8 seconds of coming on, before spanking one in against the Premier League champions from just outside the stadium. True legends every one of them.
For me, it all depends on how history is going to look back at Big Kev, as you only truly miss something when it's gone. Without ever making people sit on the edge of their seats, Kev has always just seemed to make things tick. Most of the time, he's got the job done. He's been quietly effective. But is that what legends are made of?
If you look at Steve Tilson, you could ask the same question.
He's seemingly not the brightest of managers. He's shockingly poor at pre and post-match interviews. He's caught out perhaps a little more often than he should be tactically. And he's made a couple of woeful, high-profile signings. But he's also been quietly effective; and he's had more than enough results under his belt to have earned our gratitude and loyalty for years to come.
History is always going to look back on Steve Tilson with favour. His quiet effectiveness, without a shadow of a doubt, has earned him the status of Southend United legend. So why not Big Kev?
Well here's the thing...
Can you imagine talking to your kids in 15 years about 'the legendary days of Kevin Maher'?
I love him to pieces. I shall be eternally grateful for everything he has ever done. I will go to his testimonial. I will buy a souvenir programme. But, while I see him as a fantastic servant of this football club, and while I will always remember him fondly, I just can't see myself speaking in the future about...
The legend of Kevin Maher.
