Scotland (Parliament Politics Magazine) – Kilmarnock appoints Neil McCann as manager with Billy Dodds as assistant until 2028, aiming for stability as the club struggles at the bottom of the league.
As reported by Andy Campbell of the BBC, Kilmarnock Football Club has named Neil McCann as their new manager, with Billy Dodds joining as his assistant, both signing contracts running until 2028.
What can Neil McCann and Billy Dodds bring to struggling Kilmarnock?
Neil McCann takes over from Stuart Kettlewell, who was dismissed after six wins in 25 games. Under-19s coach Kris Doolan managed the past four matches, earning one point.
Last season, Dodds and McCann previously collaborated as part of Barry Ferguson’s interim coaching team at Rangers.
McCann has managed Dundee and Inverness Caledonian Thistle, where Dodds also had a spell in charge. Dodds last worked as Ross County’s assistant from 2014–2017.
The Rugby Park side sit second from bottom in the Scottish Premiership and travel to Livingston on Saturday (15:00 GMT). Livi is four points behind and has played one fewer game.
Kilmarnock’s board of directors said in a statement,
“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.”
The club stated,
“We have complete faith in their ability to do what needs to be done to keep this club competing in the Scottish Premiership.”
The Scottish football club added,
“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.”
Who’s in Kilmarnock’s Squad for the 2025–26 Season?
Kilmarnock FC Current Squad (2025–26 Season)
Goalkeepers:
- Maksymilian Stryjek
- Tobi Oluwayemi
- Eddie Beach
Defenders:
- Jamie Brandon
- Dominic Thompson
- Zac Williams
- Lewis Mayo
- Robbie Deas
- George Stanger
- James Brown
- Ethan Schilte-Brown
Midfielders:
- Rory McKenzie
- Brad Lyons
- Matty Kennedy
- Greg Kiltie
- David Watson
- Kyle Magennis
- Tom Lowery
- Jack Thomson
- Ben Brannan
- Liam Polworth
Forwards:
- Marcus Dackers
- Scott Tiffoney
- Bruce Anderson
- Marley Watkins
- Tyreece John-Jules
- Djenairo Daniels
Who are Kilmarnock facing next in the Scottish Premiership?
Kilmarnock’s next fixture is an away match against Livingston in the Scottish Premiership. The game is set for Saturday, 10 January 2026, with kick-off at 15:00.
In 2025, Kilmarnock Football Club secured six competitive wins, excluding friendlies. Their league form lagged behind cup competitions, with only two Scottish Premiership wins.
The club’s best performance this season was in the Scottish League Cup, claiming three wins before elimination. In the league, Kilmarnock are 11th in the Premiership, struggling with the fewest wins.
Where to watch Kilmarnock vs Livingston in the Scottish Premiership?
The game will take place on Saturday, 10 January 2026, starting at 15:00. Premier Sports is the main broadcaster for Kilmarnock’s Scottish Premiership matches in the UK.
To find official broadcast details, supporters can consult the Kilmarnock FC website or a sports TV guide like Live Soccer TV in the days leading up to the game.