County duo are put in permanent charge

ROSS COUNTY yesterday handed the reins to Steven Ferguson and Stuart Kettlewell on a permanent basis — with the pair’s joint-managerial positions secure even if the team are relegated. Put in temporary charge by chairman Roy MacGregor after the dismissal of Owen Coyle, the duo find themselves rooted at the bottom of the Premiership despite losing just one game in their last five. With critical back-to-back games looming against Hamilton and Partick Thistle, MacGregor yesterday gave his unequivocal backing to the pair and announced they will also oversee all football operations at the club. As well as assuming ongoing responsibility for the first team, both former players will oversee the new reserve team and all youth age groups. As part of the new structure, an academy director will be appointed to replace Ferguson, who had held the role. Richard Brittain will become reserve-team boss. ‘I’m delighted to confirm the permanent appointments of Steven and Stuart,’ said MacGregor. ‘They are a perfect fit for the role and no one knows the club and playing staff, from first team to our youngest age group, as well as them. ‘Steven is one of the most qualified coaches in the country, holding his UEFA Pro Licence. Having played here, too, and spent years establishing our current youth set-up, he knows the club inside out. ‘Stuart is one of the best young coaches in Scotland and, as well as having firstteam coaching experience under the last two managers, last season he led the development squad to an historic league title.’ Speaking about the appointment, Ferguson said: ‘It’s a fantastic opportunity to have the chance to work with the first team — as well as overseeing all age groups — and it’s one neither myself or Stuart could turn down.’ Kettlewell added: ‘I think they have all bought in to what myself and Steven have been trying to do since we took charge.’