Next Raith Rovers Manager: Four Potential Candidates For Starks Park Job
Raith Rovers have sacked manager Barry Robson after Saturday's 2-0 loss to Queen's Park, marking a fourth defeat in six games and leaving the club sixth in the Scottish Championship table.
Robson, who took charge in December following Neil Collins' departure to Sacramento Republic, guided the team to a fifth-place finish last season but struggled to build momentum this term.
With just five wins from 14 league matches, the board has acted in hopes of reviving the club's Scottish Premiership promotion push.
The search is now underway for a new manager to lead Raith through a crucial second half of the campaign, and here at Free Bets, we've highlighted four potential candidates for the Starks Park hot seat.
Next Raith Rovers Manager - Four Potential Candidates
With Barry Robson departing Stark's Park, Raith are on the hunt for a new man in charge - check out four potential contenders to be the next Raith Rovers manager below.
Callum Davidson
Calum Davidson is one of the most accomplished managers in Scottish football, having famously led St Johnstone to an unprecedented League Cup and Scottish Cup double in the 2020–21 season.
Renowned for his ability to build resilient sides on limited budgets, Davidson developed a reputation for punching above his weight and fostering team spirit.
He also has experience in the Scottish Championship from a recent stint at Queen's Park, being well-versed in the demands of life in the Scottish Championship.
Currently an assistant manager at Ross County, Davidson could be a viable appointment if he's ready to return to frontline management, and his pedigree would align well with Raith's ambitions.
Known for nurturing young talent, Davidson boasts a proven record of maximising the potential of his squads.
With his experience and winning background, he stands out as a strong candidate to land the Starks Park job.
Kevin Thomson
Thomson would be an ambitious and forward-thinking managerial option for Raith Rovers.
A former Rangers and Hibs midfielder, Thomson transitioned swiftly into coaching, leading Kelty Hearts to a dominant League Two title in his first season as manager in 2021–22.
That early success showcased his leadership, tactical clarity, and ability to inspire a squad.
With experience as a youth coach at Rangers, Thomson emphasises player development and modern coaching standards – crucial for a club like Raith that may lean on emerging talent and loan signings.
His Kelty side played attractive, confident football, blending youth and experience effectively.
Though he lacks direct Championship managerial experience, Thomson is a proven winner at a lower level and remains highly motivated to step up.
Currently available, he would bring hunger, professionalism, and strong connections within Scottish football.
His drive and developmental approach could rejuvenate Raith's squad and align well with the club's long-term ambitions.
John Kennedy
Kennedy, who recently departed Celtic after a 27-year association, is an intriguing managerial candidate for Raith Rovers.
A former player turned coach, Kennedy rose through the ranks at Celtic, beginning with the U19s, whom he led to multiple league and cup doubles, before stepping into first-team coaching roles under Ronny Deila, Brendan Rodgers, and Neil Lennon.
He later served as assistant manager and even took charge as interim boss in 2021.
Known for promoting technical, possession-based football and player development, Kennedy's style reflects the elite environment in which he worked.
While he has yet to take on a full-time managerial role, he has been consistently trusted by top-level managers and was previously considered by clubs such as Hibernian.
His experience mentoring youth talent and operating within a winning culture could benefit a Championship side like Raith.
The main challenge lies in adapting from Celtic's infrastructure to Raith's resources, but his pedigree and tactical grounding make him an exciting option.
Peter Leven
Peter Leven is an ambitious and well-travelled coach whose diverse experience makes him a strong candidate for Raith Rovers.
A former midfielder with over 300 appearances, Leven moved into coaching after early retirement and has held roles in Scotland, Belarus, and Russia.
He was part of Dynamo Brest's 2019 title-winning staff and helped FC Orenburg earn promotion to Russia's top tier.
More recently, Leven joined Aberdeen as first-team coach and assistant manager, stepping in as caretaker boss twice in 2024 with an impressive record of six wins, four draws, and one loss in 11 games.
Tactically, he favours a 4-2-3-1 setup, blending structure with attacking intent. His international stints have shaped a flexible coaching style, and he's highly regarded for player development.
Although he lacks long-term managerial experience, his success as an interim manager and UEFA Pro License credentials suggest his readiness.
Leven previously turned down Raith's approach in 2024, but now could be the right time to take the reins permanently.
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