Stuart Kettlewell stay confirmed as Motherwell apologise for confusion
Last updated 22nd Feb 2024
Motherwell have confirmed manager Stuart Kettlewell will stay beyond the summer - and have apologised for not communicating the news better.
The 39-year old was appointed on a permanent basis last February and secured a 7th placed finish after a good run of form.
The club's official statement said Kettlewell was appointed "'initially until 2024" with no further details, leaving fans wondering whether his contract was up this summer.
Motherwell have now moved to clear up the situation, revealing his contract extended to 2025 after keeping the club in the Premiership at the end of last season.
A club statement read: "Following a discussion at last night’s AGM, the Club wishes to clarify Stuart Kettlewell’s contract position.
"The Motherwell manager was appointed back in February 2023, having won his two games in interim charge against St Mirren and Hearts.
"Kettlewell then signed a contract to become the permanent manager. The deal ran initially until May 2024 but it was agreed, should Motherwell remain in the top flight, that deal would be extended 12 months until May 2025.
"We would like to apologise to both our fans and Stuart for not properly communicating the terms of the extension in May last year and for the uncertainty this has clearly caused."
Chairman Jim McMahon added: “Although during the 12 months of his time here there has been some highs and lows, we firmly believe that Stuart can take this group of players and the club forward"
“He came in at a difficult point last season and rejuvenated everyone at the club. This season, we are in a position to move up the table towards the end of the campaign. He has worked tremendously hard to this point and we will continue to back him.
“I ask that everyone gets behind the team as we push into the last segment of this season. The support this season, at home and on the road, has been impressive and we’re all hugely appreciative of it. We will need that as we head into a crucial point of the season.”
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