Stuart Kettlewell has been sacked as manager of Kilmarnock after only seven months in charge.

The 41-year-old replaced Derek McInnes at Rugby Park after signing a two-year contract in May of this year, but a winless run of ten games, including a 2-1 defeat away to Aberdeen yesterday, has sealed his fate.

Former assistant Stevie Frail also departs, with ex-Partick Thistle boss Kris Doolan taking interim charge before he assumes his new role as Head of Development and under 19s manager.

A statement on the official club website from the Club’s Board of Directors reads:

“This has been a difficult decision taken after careful consideration. We believe there is plenty of quality in the squad and had hoped that results would turn around. Unfortunately change is now required to best serve the interests of Kilmarnock FC.

“Our focus is now on providing stability, supporting the squad, and supporting Kris, Craig and Paul as they lead the team forward while we progress with the next steps.

“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 as we aim to get back to winning ways.”

Kilmarnock currently sit 11th, just three points ahead of Livingston who have played one game less, and host Falkirk this Saturday.