Kilmarnock Football Club have terminated the contract of manager Stuart Kettlewell following a dismal run of form that has left the Ayrshire club languishing near the foot of the Scottish Premiership.
The Final Straw at Pittodrie
The decision was confirmed by the Rugby Park board on Sunday, just hours after a 2-1 defeat to Aberdeen. Kilmarnock had led at Pittodrie until the 79th minute, but the late collapse proved to be the final blow for Kettlewell's tenure. His assistant, Stephen Frail, has also been relieved of his duties.
The 41-year-old former Motherwell boss was appointed in May, taking over after Derek McInnes departed for Hearts. His start was promising, with the team losing only one of their opening seven matches this season.
However, the situation deteriorated sharply. The club's last victory came on October 4 against St Mirren. Since then, across a possible 30 points, Kilmarnock have managed to secure just two, culminating in the current 10-game winless streak.
Interim Appointment and Board Statement
In a statement, the Kilmarnock board described it as a "difficult decision taken after careful consideration." They expressed belief in the squad's quality but stated that "change is now required to best serve the interests of Kilmarnock FC."
Kris Doolan, the former Partick Thistle manager who was set to join as head of development, will now take interim charge of first-team affairs. He will be supported by coaches Craig Clark and Paul Di Giacomo while the club searches for a permanent successor.
The statement added: "Our focus is now on providing stability, supporting the squad... With an important run of festive fixtures about to get underway, starting this weekend at home to Falkirk, we hope all supporters can stick with us."
Who Could Take the Job Permanently?
Attention now turns to who will take the helm permanently. One prominent name in the frame is former Kilmarnock player Steven Naismith. The current Scotland coach was close to getting the job last summer before Kettlewell's appointment, though it is unclear if he could combine it with his national team duties.
Another candidate is Robbie Neilson, the former Hearts manager who is currently assistant head coach at Belgian side Lommel SK. Stenhousemuir boss Gary Naysmith, recently voted League One manager of the month, is also understood to be under consideration.
The immediate task for the interim team is to halt the slide and gather crucial points during the busy festive period, starting with the visit of Falkirk to Rugby Park this weekend.
