Steven Naismith responds to next Kilmarnock manager link

The National

15-05-2025

The former Heart of Midlothian boss has quickly emerged as a frontrunner to succeed Derek McInnes at Rugby Park.
McInnes has been heavily linked with a move to Hearts with an approach made between the clubs over a deal to take him to Tynecastle.
It's expected McInnes will become Hearts manager next week.
The Kilmarnock manager will not lead the team for the final game of the season, against Hearts, with the club confirming the decision in a statement on Thursday.
Now, Naismith has responded to reports labelling him as a contender to take over at Kilmarnock and replace McInnes.
Asked about a possible return to Rugby Park, as a manager on The Warm-Up, he said: "I'm having a great time here. You flew straight in. No, I'm here!
"My things haven't changed. I will go serious for you and give you a good answer.
"I'm enjoying the time out. It takes over your life, management.
"Whether you say life/work balance, it doesn't. 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; the right club, you believe in what it is, and you're going to make a difference. That's where I sit.
"I have spoken to clubs in the past and I have just felt it's not been right, I will probably speak to clubs in the future and if that changes then my mind will change.
"I'm really relaxed and enjoy my life at the moment."
Naismith is currently away from the dugout after being relieved of his role at Hearts earlier in the season.
However, he has admitted he will return to management when the right offer comes along.
He added: "Everything in your life takes a back seat, whether you like it or not. See for me, that has got to be the way it is, you have got to be 100 percent committed and that is the focus. That is why it is so intense.
"The buzz of me being a manager and what I believe I can give when I am all in, I think I could be a success and I think my first year shows that.
"I'm not putting any pressure, I am not going to jump into a football club just to get back in, I don't think that is the right thing to do.
"If the right opportunity comes and it ticks everything and I'm ready, then I will do it."
A Kilmarnock club statement read: "It has been agreed between our Board of Directors, Derek McInnes and his staff that the best approach would be if they were not in charge for the final match of the season.
"Paul Sheerin and Alan Archibald will also not be involved – first team preparation and matchday duties will be undertaken by Chris Burke and Craig Clark.
"We look forward to seeing the blue and white army out in force this weekend as we give the players the send off they deserve.
"More information will follow in due course."
Charlie Mulgrew, Brian Graham and Steven Naismith appeared on The Warm-Up, the William Hill SPFL's weekly preview show. Check out the full episode here: https://www.youtube.com/@TheWarm__Up