MIXU PAATELAINEN

Manager (2010 - 2011)

In May 2010, Kilmarnock’s last day, nerve-shredding scoreless draw with Falkirk kept the Ayrshire club in the Premier League - just. But, with Killie, the unexpected is always just around the corner. And the on-field philosophy of the club was about to change significantly.

New manager Mixu Paatelainen brought with him an approach to football that placed an emphasis on technicality, style, tactical awareness and, most importantly, entertainment. After a slow start, a 3-0 win at Tynecastle started the motor running.

But by April 2011 it was all over. Mixu - soon to be named Manager of the Season - had excelled, and he received an offer he found impossible to refuse: manager of his national team. Finland’s gain was certainly Killie’s loss but what a year it was with Mixu Paatelainen...”what a very good signing!”