Motherwell fan abuse issues ‘won’t affect’ Kettlewell at Kilmarnock

Stuart Kettlewell, the manager of New Kilmarnock, claims that his experience with Motherwell manager and fan abuse will not have an impact on either his family’s or his job.

Kettlewell, 40, cited fan abuse when he left Fir Park in January, saying that “this is my job, it doesn’t have to be my family’s life,” and that he genuinely stands by.

Since I left Motherwell, I’ve been offered jobs, but what was always important to me was to try to find the best job for me.

Kettlewell also stated that he “earned a lot” from his time away from football and that he’s spent time at Everton while he’s not playing football.

I’ve watched a very talented group of players from afar. Without a doubt, some bodies will need to be added. Many of our players are on contracts.

“At no point have I ever been asked to cuddle me, nor have I ever expressed my condolences to anyone. I made the decision to leave Motherwell, and I continue to do so today. My job is not necessarily that of my family; it is my job.

Stevie Frail will assist Kettlewell once more in the coming two-year deal, while coaches Chris Burke and Craig Clark are also on the backroom staff.

McInnes was not a part of Killie’s youth team’s success in the Scottish Youth Cup, but Burke has since helped them win the first team for their season finale against Hearts. In the Scottish Premiership from 2024 to 2025, Kilmarnock placed ninth.

Steven Naismith, a former Killie forward, and Scotland assistant John Carver had also been linked with the position.

In a statement from the club, it was stated that the club had a thorough search for a candidate who had a track record of hiring and developing players, including young talent and had a deep understanding of Scottish football.

“We chose Stuart to be Kilmarnock’s best choice for a new chapter in the organization.”

In choosing a new manager, Kilmarnock clearly had an eye on avoiding any issues that came with McInnes’ departure.

With the growing rumors, a defeat at Motherwell, and some understandable dismay from some fans, things got a little tricky.

It was obvious that McInnes’ decision to not take over for his final game against his prospective new employers was a case of “damage limitation.”

Kettlewell didn’t come along unexpectedly. He is accessible and capable of citing compelling work history at Ross County and Motherwell.

David M: At Motherwell, he had no real chance. His sincerity is always mine.

Ryan, Kettlewell has a lot of risk. If he wasn’t happy, surely it has to be considered a real possibility that he would walk again on his own terms when you consider how he left his previous position?

Ross: Given some of the other names being praised, Kettlewell’s potential is a little unwelcoming. During his previous job, he didn’t specifically ignite the heather.