It has come as a shock but Motherwell are on the hunt for a new manager after Stuart Kettlewell’s resignation.
Despite sitting fifth in the Premiership, some Well fans have had complaints over recent form and also the team’s style of play and Kettlewell says the unacceptable abuse he was receiving had become too much for him and his family.
Fir Park directors were forced to reluctantly accept his resignation for that reason and will now begin the process of finding a successor.
Their statement reads: “Motherwell Football Club can confirm the Club Board of Directors have very reluctantly accepted the resignation of Stuart Kettlewell today.
“Stuart approached Chief Executive Brian Caldwell on Monday morning to explain why he wished to resign.
“Stuart explained that some of the personal abuse was now affecting his family, to the point where they didn’t wish to attend games.
“As a result, he felt it would be best if he tendered his resignation.
“Since being appointed manager in February 2023, Stuart has managed 92 games overall, boasting a win percentage of 41.3%, the highest of any Motherwell manager since Stuart McCall.
“He guided Motherwell to safety, narrowly missing out on top-six football in his first three months in charge, collecting 30 points out of a possible 42.
“The good form ran into 2023/24, when Motherwell went ten league games without defeat, the longest run since 2010, and again, narrowly missed out on top-six football.
“This season, he guided the club back to Hampden for the first time in six years in the Premier Sports Cup and has the team sitting fifth in the league currently.
“All of this was achieved despite the sale of a number of key players for substantial transfer fees.”
It may now be seen as a bit of a poisoned chalice due to the nature of Kettlewell’s departure but, on the flip side, the fact they sit so high in the table could be a great platform from which a new man can build.
Here, Not the Old Firm looks at some potential candidates.
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Scott Brown
Always likely to be strongly linked with the job due to the strong start he has had at Ayr United added to the big name he already has for himself in Scottish football. Recently came close to the St Johnstone job but declined, but Motherwell may be seen as more secure as they’re far higher up the table.
John McGlynn
Like Brown, McGlynn is flying high in the Championship with Falkirk and that comes after an unbeaten season in League One. Is also getting these results while playing brilliant football, which could be welcomed by the Well fans who have had grumbles.
Tam Courts
Another who was in the running last time there was a vacancy. Did well with Dundee United before heading to try his hand in Hungary with Honved.
Owen Coyle
Well thought of in Lanarkshire due to his time with Motherwell as a player and also has a good track record in management in both Scotland and England. Currently in India with Chennaiyin after coming so close to taking Queen’s Park to the Premiership.
Billy Davies
Has been out the game for years but Davies recently opened up to Not the Old Firm about his desire to return. A previous Steelmen manager and has a good record down south.
Neil Lennon
Always banded about for jobs but it could be realistic this time after his second adventure abroad, this time with Rapid Bucharest, turned sour.
Steven Naismith
Out of work after a disastrous start to the season with Hearts but previously finished third with them last season and will be keen to get back in.
Mark Fotheringham
Another who has voiced his desire to get back into management in Scotland with lots of coaching experience abroad and in England.
Jack Ross
Was linked with the Fir Park hotseat before Kettlewell took the job. Currently has a good role at Newcastle though, so may be reluctant to give that up.
Simo Valakari
Okay, he has just taken over at St Johnstone but hear us out…A former Motherwell player and the switch might appeal due to Saints’ position in the league. Probably unlikely but stranger things have happened.
David Healy
Looks set to win an NIFL Premiership title with Linfield so may be reluctant to leave until that is done and dusted. Almost took the Raith Rovers job earlier this season before performing a U-turn.