Kilmarnock's tenure of Stuart Kettlewell has come to an end after six months, 21 days, and 23 games. The former Motherwell boss was sacked along with assistant coach Stevie Frail following a 10-game winless run. Sunday's late defeat at Aberdeen proved the final straw for the 41-year-old, who leaves with Kilmarnock in the Scottish Premiership's relegation play-off spot. Kettlewell felt hard done by about the nature of that loss, but the issues under the former Ross County manager run deeper than the Dons' controversial winning goal. Kilmarnock have been in freefall since a 3-0 home defeat to Hearts in October, with eight defeats and two draws in 10 games. The team's poor form has been characterized by a lack of possession, with an average of just 38% per game, and a poor defensive record, with 32 goals conceded. Stuart Kettlewell's departure has raised questions about who will take over at Rugby Park, with Kilmarnock fans eager to see a new manager appointed. The club's relegation struggles are a major concern, with bottom-side Livingston just three points behind. Kettlewell's time at Kilmarnock was marked by a similar pattern to his tenure at Motherwell, where he oversaw an encouraging start before a downturn in form led to his resignation. The same questions were being asked of the manager at Kilmarnock, with the team's passive, counter-attacking style coming under scrutiny. Kilmarnock's next move will be crucial in determining their fate in the Scottish Premiership.