Stuart Kettlewell has quit as manager of Motherwell after revealing “personal abuse” started “affecting his family”.
In a statement, Motherwell – who face Celtic live on Sky Sports on Sunday – said they “very reluctantly” accepted the resignation.
Kettlewell took the decision on Monday and explained to the club’s CEO Brian Caldwell that the abuse has resulted in his family wanting to stay away from matches.
The 40-year-old’s departure comes one month prior to his two-year anniversary in charge and he leaves the club fifth in the Scottish Premiership.
Saturday’s 2-1 defeat at bottom-side St Johnstone was the Fir Park side’s third consecutive loss and leaves them with just one win from nine matches.
Assistant manager Stephen Frail will take charge of the team for Sunday’s match against Celtic, assisted by Jon Obika, Richard Foster, and the backroom staff.
Caldwell ‘very disappointed by abuse’
In a statement, Motherwell CEO Brian Caldwell said:
“It’s really sad that Stuart felt that the time was right to move on.
“He had an exceptional record and has generated an impressive amount of transfer income for the club.
“He has been a critical factor in the development of Motherwell academy graduates, as well as developing young loan players during his tenure.
“When Stuart approached me, I was very disappointed to learn the effect this was having on his family and how he was feeling. No manager, player, or club employee, every one of whom gives their all for the club, should feel this way.
“We therefore had no option but to reluctantly accept his resignation in the best interests of Stuart and his family. As a fan-owned, community-driven football club, we will always look after our own.”
Motherwell’s next six fixtures
February 2: Celtic (H) – Scottish Premiership – live on Sky Sports
February 15: Ross County (H) – Scottish Premiership
February 22: Dundee Utd (A) – Scottish Premiership
February 26: Dundee (H) – Scottish Premiership
March 1: Rangers (A) – Scottish Premiership
March 15: St Mirren (H) – Scottish Premiership