Ross County: Stuart Kettlewell returns, tasked with avoiding drop

Stuart Kettlewell has returned to Ross County as manager – but only on a short-term contract tasked with steering the Dingwall side clear of second successive relegation.

The 41-year-old, who was sacked by Kilmarnock two weeks ago, previously managed County for two years until 2020.

He succeeds Tony Docherty, who was sacked earlier this month after four months in charge with County sitting bottom of Scotland’s second tier despite starting the season as among the promotion favourites.

Kettlewell, who served the club for 12 years as a player and coach, said: “We find ourselves in a fight and, when asked, I had no hesitation to accept the challenge.

“I will pour everything into the next few months with the staff and players to maintain our position in the Championship.

“Being back at Ross County will feel like home.”

County hope Kettlewell will also “set the foundations for a strong reset in the summer” should they remain in Scotland’s second tier.

He is joined in Dingwall by Stephen Frail, who was also his assistant with Motherwell and Kilmarnock.

Kettlewell resigned as Well manager in January 2025 citing the personal abuse he and his family had received from some of the fans and was sacked by their Premiership rivals after just seven months in charge.

County chief executive Steven Ferguson added: “We knew we needed someone who would accept a short-term deal with a very clear remit, could start work immediately and understands the club, the culture, and the league.

“Stuart consistently came to the top in our discussions.

“He has a proven track record with Ross County and knows the unique challenges we face in the Highlands; he understands the position we are in and the huge task ahead of us.

“Whether we like it or not, we are in a fight to secure our Championship status.”

Interim manager John Robertson will remain on the coaching staff.