Kilmarnock manager Neil McCann has set his sights on Scottish Premiership progress after guiding the Rugby Park side to safety last season. The club finished 11th in the final 2025 table with 28 points, six wins, 10 draws and 17 losses from 33 games, but a strong run of four wins in their last five matches secured their top-flight status.
What’s the plan for the new season?
McCann, who took over in January with Kilmarnock in the relegation zone, wants to build on that momentum. "If you are standing still, you're effectively going backwards," he said. The manager aims to avoid another relegation battle and instead push for a top-six finish. Kilmarnock’s recent form (WWWWL) gives them confidence as they prepare for the new campaign.
How does the squad look?
McCann and assistant Billy Dodds are working to strengthen the squad, though McCann acknowledged they are not yet at full strength. "We're probably not quite at full tilt yet," he said. The team’s first test comes against newly promoted St Johnstone on Sunday, a match McCann expects to be tough despite St Johnstone’s recent promotion.
What about the pitch change?
Kilmarnock have switched from artificial turf to grass for the first time since 2014, following a league-wide ban on plastic pitches. McCann believes the new surface will benefit their style of play. "This will be one of the finest in the country," he said, noting that the pitch is already improving and will rival any in Scotland. The club’s home record last season (six wins in eight) suggests they can make Rugby Park a fortress again.
Kilmarnock’s next fixture is at home against Falkirk on December 30, 2026, with Falkirk currently sixth in the table.
