Kilmarnock manager Derek McInnes signs new contract at Rugby Park

Derek McInnes has said that he is delighted to commit his future to Kilmarnock after signing a new contract at Rugby Park.

The manager’s existing deal was due to expire at the end of the season but he has agreed a three-ans-a-half year extension, signing on until 2026.

McInnes joined the club in January and delivered the Championship title, and promotion, at the first time of asking.

The former Aberdeen boss is now looking forward to building on that platform and putting together a successful team in the Premiership over the next few years.

“I’ve known for a while that Kilmarnock is the place that I wanted to commit my future to, so I’m really pleased that the extension has now been agreed,” he told the club’s website.

“Thanks to the backing of the board and the supporters, the club has come a long way since we joined forces in January and I’m looking forward to the next stage of our journey.

“With a bolstered club structure and strengthening recruitment process behind the scenes, there are plenty of reasons for Kilmarnock fans to be excited about the club’s long-term future.

“In the short term, there’s a lot of football to be played and everyone including the squad, staff and supporters will play their part.”

Kilmarnock managing director Phyllis McLeish said: “Derek’s commitment to the club, alongside the recently announced structural changes, provide the foundation and stability required to implement long-term plans that will positively impact our team standing and strengthen youth pathways.

“It’s important that we establish a long-term strategy for the club, to ensure that we continue to improve on and off the park. Derek is a vital part of our projected growth and with his guidance we believe that, in time, we’ll have built a much stronger Kilmarnock for our supporters and the next generation of Killie fans.”