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

Stuart Kettlewell has resigned as Motherwell manager.

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

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

They added that Kettlewell told club chief executive Brian Caldwell that “some personal abuse is now affecting his family, to the point where they do not wish to attend matches.”

Assistant coach Stephen Friel will take charge of the team in Sunday’s match, and will be assisted by John Obika, Richard Foster and the coaching staff.

Motherwell CEO ‘very disappointed by mistreatment’

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

He added: “He had an exceptional record and generated a huge amount of transfer income for the club.

“He has been crucial to the development of Motherwell academy graduates, as well as the development of young loan players during his tenure.

“When Stuart contacted me, I was very disappointed to hear about the impact this had on his family and how he was feeling. No manager, player or club employee, every one of them giving their all to the club, should feel that way.

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

Motherwell’s next six matches

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

February 15: Ross County (H) – Scottish Premier League

February 22: Dundee United (away) – Scottish Premier League

February 26: Dundee (home) – Scottish Premier League

March 1: Rangers (A) – Scottish Premier League

March 15: St Mirren (H) – Scottish Premier League