'Significant appointment' - Former Rangers coach named Kilmarnock manager as Ibrox pal joins as assistant

The former Rangers coach, who was part of Barry Ferguson's interim coaching team at Ibrox last season, has signed a two-and-a-half year deal with the Rugby Park club.

Billy Dodds, who also worked on the Rangers backroom team last term, has joined McCann as his assistant.

Hailed as a "significant appointment", McCann succeeds Stuart Kettlewell, who has since taken charge of Ross County after being sacked by Kilmarnock last month.

McCann, who has been employed a pundit with Sky Sports and the BBC, will be charged with turning the Ayrshire club's fortunes around with the team currently sitting second bottom of the Scottish Premiership table without a win in 14 matches.

A statement from the Kilmarnock board of directors read: “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.

“We have complete faith in their ability to do what needs to be done to keep this club competing in the Scottish Premiership. 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.”

McCann’s first match in charge of Kilmarnock will be a trip to Livingston - who are four points beneath them at the bottom of the table with a game in hand - on Saturday in an immediate relegation six-pointer.

A Kilmarnock statement confirmed: "We are pleased to announce the appointment of Neil McCann as the club’s new first-team manager, with Billy Dodds joining him as assistant manager until the end of the 2027/28 season.

"Neil brings significant experience of the Scottish game, both as a player and as a manager, alongside a clear understanding of what is required to compete at the highest level of domestic football. His previous managerial experience in the Scottish Premiership, combined with strong leadership qualities and tactical knowledge, made him a strong candidate.

"Billy Dodds adds further depth to the management team, offering extensive playing and coaching experience within Scottish football and a proven ability to work closely with players at the highest level."