Kilmarnock Appoints Neil McCann as New Manager
Kilmarnock Football Club has appointed Neil McCann as their new manager, with Billy Dodds joining him as assistant manager. Both have signed contracts that will keep them at the club until the summer of 2028.
McCann takes over from Stuart Kettlewell, who was dismissed following a disappointing run of six wins from 25 matches. In the interim, Under-19s coach Kris Doolan managed the team for the last four games, securing just one point.
McCann and Dodds previously collaborated as part of Barry Ferguson's interim management team at Rangers last season. McCann has experience managing Dundee and Inverness Caledonian Thistle, where Dodds also held a managerial position. Most recently, Dodds served as an assistant at Ross County from 2014 to 2017.
Kilmarnock currently sits second from the bottom in the Scottish Premiership standings and will face Livingston this Saturday at 15:00 GMT. Livingston is four points ahead and has a game in hand.
The Kilmarnock board of directors released a statement emphasizing the importance of this appointment. They stated, "We fully understand how crucial it was to get this appointment right. After a thorough process, we are confident that Neil and Billy possess the qualities, experience, and character needed to lead Kilmarnock Football Club forward. We trust in their ability to ensure the club remains competitive in the Scottish Premiership. Both Neil and Billy have an in-depth understanding of the Scottish league, its demands, and share a vision that aligns with the culture and values of this football club. This is a significant appointment for Kilmarnock FC, and we believe the players will quickly adapt to their leadership, responding positively to the clarity, belief, and ambition they bring at this critical juncture for the club."