Ross County name Steven Ferguson and Stuart Kettlewell permanent co-managers

ROSS COUNTY have announced the appointment of Steven Ferguson and Stuart Kettlewell as co-managers on a permanent basis.

Ferguson was academy director and Kettlewell was development squad manager before they took over the Ladbrokes Premiership’s bottom side initially until the end of the season after Owen Coyle departed in March.

With four post-split fixtures remaining, the Staggies are unbeaten in three games and one point behind Partick Thistle.

County chairman Roy MacGregor told the club’s official website: “I’m delighted to confirm the permanent appointments of Steven and Stuart.

“They are a perfect fit for the role and no one knows the club and playing staff, from first team down to our youngest age group, as well as them. They are relishing the opportunity to take on their roles permanently.”

Ferguson and Kettlewell will oversee all football operations at the club, including the new reserve team and all youth-age groups.

As part of the new structure a new academy director will be appointed to replace Ferguson while Richard Brittain will become reserve-team manager.

“Steven is one of the most qualified coaches in the country, holding his UEFA Pro License, and, having played here too and spent years establishing our current youth set up, knows the club inside out,” said MacGregor.

“Stuart is one of the best young coaches in Scotland and – as well as having first-team coaching experience under the last two managers – last season he led the development squad to an historic league title.

“In their short time in charge it has become obvious that they could not be overlooked in the search for a permanent manager.

“Having them overseeing our youth and reserve teams too will also ensure continuity at the club and give our emerging talents every chance of making the grade.”

Ross County face a trip to fellow relegation battlers Hamilton on Saturday and Ferguson is keen to build on the job he has already done alongside Kettlewell.

“I’m delighted to become permanent co-manager of Ross County Football Club,” said Ferguson.

“It’s a fantastic opportunity to have the chance to work with the first team – as well as overseeing all age groups of football at the club – and it’s one that neither myself or Stuart could turn down.”

Kettlewell added: “I’m absolutely delighted to be given this opportunity, and there’s no-one else I’d want to do it with more than Steven. We work well together and the club means a lot to both of us.

“Being part of such an innovative football structure appealed to both myself and Steven and we thank the chairman for the opportunity.”