Next Kilmarnock Manager Odds: Cash For Kettlewell
Looking for the latest next Kilmarnock manager odds?
With Derek McInnes moving to Hearts, betting sites have opened the market on who could take charge at Rugby Park next.
Former Motherwell gaffer Stuart Kettlewell heads the betting currently - here’s your complete guide to the leading names in the frame.
Next Kilmarnock Manager Odds
The football betting odds have Stuart Kettlewell as the current favourite to take over at Kilmarnock following Derek McInnes’ departure.
Here’s a closer look at the leading contenders for the Rugby Park hot seat:
| Candidate | Odds (Next Kilmarnock Manager) |
|---|---|
| Stuart Kettlewell | 6/4 |
| Steven Naismith | 3/1 |
| David Martindale | 4/1 |
| John Carver | 7/1 |
These are hypothetical odds provided by industry experts - Updated, Friday, May 23rd, 8:00pm
Stuart Kettlewell
Kettlewell is an experienced young coach who has managed two Scottish Premiership clubs.
He began his managerial career at Ross County, serving as co-manager and then sole manager from 2018 to 2020 before taking over at Motherwell in 2023.
Kettlewell wasn’t sacked at Fir Park - he resigned in January 2025 with the team sitting in a respectable fifth place, a position many Killie fans would envy. He stepped down, citing personal abuse from a section of the support, despite having a strong overall record.
Now unattached, Kettlewell has been heavily linked with the Kilmarnock vacancy and is reportedly already in talks with the club.
With proven Premiership experience and immediate availability, he is widely considered one of the leading contenders to succeed Derek McInnes.
Steven Naismith
A former Kilmarnock player, Steven Naismith, was the early favourite to succeed Derek McInnes, but his odds have drifted over the last few days.
The 38-year-old started his career at Rugby Park and retains strong ties to the club. He recently managed Hearts, initially as interim boss before a permanent spell in 2023, and despite being dismissed after a poor run, his coaching credentials remain respected.
His familiarity with the club, Scottish Premiership experience, and potential to include ex-teammate Chris Burke in his coaching setup make him a logical and sentimental frontrunner.
David Martindale
David Martindale has built a reputation as a resilient, pragmatic manager, most notably keeping Livingston competitive on a modest budget.
Despite Livi's 2024 relegation, Martindale's consistent top-six finishes in previous seasons highlight his tactical ability and leadership. The 49-year-old is admired across the league and would bring Premiership experience and a no-nonsense approach to Kilmarnock.
While he has no personal ties to the club, his track record fits the steady, proven operator profile, and he is reportedly admired by Kilmarnock's board as someone who could come in and "steady the ship" at Rugby Park.
With McInnes gone, Martindale is seen as a credible alternative - bookmakers have him third-favourite - and media reports suggest he could be open to discussions after Livingston face Ross County in the play-offs.
John Carver
Carver is a veteran coach with extensive experience across British and international football.
Best known for his stint as Newcastle United’s caretaker manager in 2015, he has also managed abroad - including spells with Omonia Nicosia and currently Lechia Gdańsk - and serves as Steve Clarke’s assistant with the Scotland national team.
Since taking charge of Lechia in late 2024, Carver has impressed by guiding the club away from relegation trouble and earning a nomination for Ekstraklasa Coach of the Season.
With his contract reportedly short-term, Carver is said to be interested in a return to the UK and has emerged as a contender for the Kilmarnock job.
His mix of top-level coaching pedigree and recent success overseas makes him a credible option for Rugby Park.
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