Stuart Kettlewell handed firm Motherwell show of support as club issue apology over boss' contract

Motherwell chairman Jim McMahon has thrown his support behind Stuart Kettlewell as the club moved to clarify the manager’s position at Fir Park.

Kettlewell marked a full year in permanent charge of the Steelmen today but doubts over his long term future had been raised among fans with suggestions the 39-year-old’s contract would expire this summer. Well sit seven points above the relegation play-off spot and with with patchy form and a Scottish Cup exit to Championship Morton pressure has ramped up on the manager.

However McMahon insists Kettlewell is in place for the long-haul after triggering an extension to the summer of 2025 by keeping the club in the Premiership last season. The former Ross County boss oversaw a major reduction in playing staff over the last 12 months and saw top scorer Kevin Van Veen exit for a bumper fee to Groningen.

Motherwell issued a statement this morning apologising "to both our fans and Stuart for not properly communicating the terms of the extension". And McMahon said: “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."

Motherwell face Celtic at Fir Park on Sunday and with just two wins from their last 22 league games are hungry for points as the look to drive clear of the drop zone. McMahon said: “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