Kilmarnock Manager Derek McInnes Steps Aside for Final Match Ahead of Hearts Move

Derek McInnes, who led Kilmarnock to promotion and European qualification during his three-and-a-half-year tenure, will not manage the team in their final game of the season against Hearts as he is set to become Hearts' new head coach. The decision followed fan unrest and derogatory chants directed at McInnes during Kilmarnock's 3-0 loss to Motherwell, prompting an amicable agreement between McInnes, Kilmarnock's board, and staff to remove him and his assistants from the final match duties. Assistant coaches Chris Burke and Craig Clark will take charge of the team's preparation and matchday responsibilities. McInnes' move to Hearts, succeeding Neil Critchley, is expected to be confirmed soon, with compensation agreed between the clubs. Despite the difficult end to his time at Kilmarnock, assistant Paul Sheerin expressed disappointment over the fan reaction, emphasizing McInnes' dedication and contribution to the club. The club and McInnes aim to give the players a proper send-off in the season finale without further distractions.