Kettlewell's plan to lean on young team

New Killie boss will utilise successful youth squad

- CALLUM CARSON

Stuart Kettlewell is hoping to lean on Killie’s successful youth team but knows he can't fling them into the deep end if they’re not ready.

The new Kilmarnock boss has a decent track record of promoting through the youth academy with his Motherwell side having the most minutes for under-21 players last season until his departure in January.

That was part of the attraction from the club’s board of directors, especially given Killie scooped the Scottish FA Youth Cup in April.

Their gaffer, Chris Burke, will be part of the first-team coaching staff under Kettlewell and his knowledge of the youth players will be pivotal.