Kilmarnock prepare for talks with Steven Naismith over stunning return to Rugby Park as manager to replace Derek McInnes
HOMEWARD BOUND Kilmarnock prepare for talks with Steven Naismith over stunning return to Rugby Park as manager to replace Derek McInnes
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KILMARNOCK are ready to try to tempt Steven Naismith back into management.
SunSport understands the Rugby Park side want talks with their former player as they begin the search for Derek McInnes' successor.
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Steven Naismith was sacked by Hearts in September
Credit: Willie Vass
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But he could be set for a return to former club Kilmarnock as their new boss
Credit: News Group Newspapers Ltd
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Naismith was asked about the potential move on The Warm-Up podcast
Credit: THE WARM-UP
Naismith, 38, was axed by Hearts - who McInnes will take charge of - in September and is thought he is keen on a return to the dugout.
The ex-Scotland international refused to rule himself out of the running for the Killie job.
But after being out of football for the first time in his life he insists he will take time to weigh up what he does next.
Asked about the links to the vacant hotseat on the latest episode of The Warm Up, William Hill SPFL's weekly preview show, Naismith said: 'I'll go serious for you and give you a good answer. I'm enjoying the time out.
'It takes over your life, management. It's on your mind all the time.
'I loved it but I've loved my time out. I'm at the point where everything needs to be perfect for me.
'So it has to be the right club, you believe in what it is and that you're going to make a difference. That's where I sit.'
SunSport told on Monday how Naismith would be a leading contender if McInnes left.
McInnes initially claimed he would be in the Killie dugout for the final two games of their season, despite the clubs agreeing he could move to the Jambos.
But he dramatically left his post this morning following Wednesday's 3-0 loss to Motherwell.
Derek McInnes spotted leaving Rugby Park for last time as Kilmarnock fans thank ex-manager
That has hastened Killie's chase for Naismith, who became a club hero after coming through the ranks then netting 32 goals in 105 appearances before being sold to Rangers in 2007 for a club record fee £1.9million.
He was a part of Steve Clarke's backroom team then took charge at Tynecastle on an interim basis in April 2023.
After landing the permanent post he guided them into third spot in his first full season in charge but was then axed just six games into this season with the club sitting at the foot of the table.
It's thought that experience hasn't put Naismith off the role. He has used his time out to further his education by going on club visits and speaking with managers he has worked with in the past, as well analysing things in various media roles.
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Naismith could replace the departed Derek McInnes
Credit: PA
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