Former Scotland international Neil McCann takes charge at Kilmarnock

Ex-Scotland international Neil McCann has been named as Kilmarnock manager until the summer of 2028.

The Rugby Park side sacked Stuart Kettlewell after seven months in charge. Killie won just two out of 17 games, leaving the club at second bottom.

The manager role in Ayrshire is McCann’s first at the helm since he was in interim charge at Inverness in 2021.

He will be assisted by former Rangers striker Billy Dodds. The pair were part of Barry Ferguson’s backroom staff when he took temporary charge at Ibrox during the latter half of the 2024/25 season.

McCann’s first game in the dugout will be a vital bout with the bottom-of-the-table side, Livingston.

Billy Dodds and Neil McCann were part of Barry Ferguson's interim coaching staff. — Billy Dodds and Neil McCann were part of Barry Ferguson’s interim coaching staff. SNS Group

Kilmarnock’s Board of Directors said: “We fully understand how important it was to get this appointment right. After a thorough process, we are assured that Neil and Billy have the qualities, experience, and character required to lead Kilmarnock Football Club forward.

“We have complete faith in their ability to do what needs to be done to keep this club competing in the Scottish Premiership. Both Neil and Billy know the Scottish league inside out, understand its demands, and share a vision that aligns strongly with the culture and values of this football club.

“This is a significant appointment for Kilmarnock FC. We are confident the players will adapt quickly to their leadership and respond positively to the clarity, belief, and ambition they bring at a crucial moment for the club.”