Stuart Kettlewell resigns as Motherwell manager with club fifth in Scottish Premiership | Football News

Stuart Kettlewell has resigned as manager of Motherwell.

He was appointed in February 2023 and departs with the club fifth in the Scottish Premiership.

In a statement, Motherwell – who face Celtic live on Sky Sports on Sunday – said they “reluctantly” accepted the resignation.

They added that Kettlewell told the club’s CEO Brian Caldwell “some of the personal abuse was now affecting his family, to the point where they didn’t wish to attend games”.

Assistant manager Stephen Frail will take charge of the team for Sunday’s match, assisted by Jon Obika, Richard Foster, and the backroom staff.

Motherwell CEO ‘very disappointed by abuse’

“It’s really sad that Stuart felt that the time was right to move on,” Caldwell said.

“He had an exceptional record and has generated an impressive amount of transfer income for the club.

“He has been a critical factor in the development of Motherwell academy graduates, as well as developing young loan players during his tenure.

“When Stuart approached me, I was very disappointed to learn the effect this was having on his family and how he was feeling. No manager, player, or club employee, every one of whom gives their all for the club, should feel this way.

“We therefore had no option but to reluctantly accept his resignation in the best interests of Stuart and his family. As a fan-owned, community-driven football club, we will always look after our own.”

Motherwell’s next six fixtures

February 2: Celtic (H) – Scottish Premiership – live on Sky Sports

February 15: Ross County (H) – Scottish Premiership

February 22: Dundee Utd (A) – Scottish Premiership

February 26: Dundee (H) – Scottish Premiership

March1: Rangers (A) – Scottish Premiership

March 15: St Mirren (H) – Scottish Premiership