Stuart Kettlewell continues as Ross County manager after relegation

“It was a devastating blow to suffer a second relegation in two seasons, just four years after being one place away from qualifying for Europe. But myself, Steven Ferguson and the board believe we can learn from the journey the club has been on in the last few seasons – and the mistakes made – and think it’s the right time to take this opportunity to reset and rebuild, and actually build something more sustainable and resilient than before.

“We have full faith that Stuart is the best person to lead the club and to instil a desire and culture in the squad that the supporters can get behind on a Saturday afternoon. I hope that, together, we can dust ourselves down, stick together and create some lasting memories on the journey ahead.”

Stephen Frail continues as Kettlewell’s assistant but John Robertson has left, the former County manager having assisted Don Cowie at the start of the 2025-26 season and briefly stepping in as interim boss before Docherty’s appointment in September.

Five out of contract players have been offered new deals but experienced campaigners Ross Laidlaw, Alex Iacovitti, Jordan White, Jay Henderson, Declan Gallagher and Uche Ikpeazu will depart, as well as eight players who were on loan, including goalkeeper Trevor Carson.