Miller's Reward for Cup Success
Former Scotland striker Kenny Miller has been named permanent head coach of Maccabi Tel Aviv, the club has confirmed. Miller, 46, signed a one-year contract with an option to extend for a further season after stepping in as caretaker following the departure of Ronny Deila in May. He guided the side to a 2-1 victory over Hapoel Be'er Sheva in the Israeli State Cup final, a result that convinced owner Mitch Goldhar to give him the job full-time.
"From the moment I arrived at the club, I felt the passion, ambition and expectations that make Maccabi such a special place," Miller told the club's official website.
Quick Facts
Appointment: Permanent head coach
Contract: One year with option for further season
Assistant: Stuart Taylor
Previous Role: Caretaker manager
Cup Win: Israeli State Cup (v Hapoel Be'er Sheva)
League Finish: 3rd in Israeli Premier League
From Player-Manager to Maccabi Hot Seat
Miller's coaching journey has taken him around the globe. Best known as a former Celtic and Rangers forward, he earned 69 caps for Scotland, scoring 18 goals. His first taste of management came as player-manager at Livingston, before assistant roles at Newcastle Jets, Western Sydney Wanderers, Falkirk – where he also had a brief caretaker stint – and Huddersfield Town. He joined Maccabi in January as part of Ronny Deila's backroom team following a spell at Atlanta United.
Taylor Brings Scottish Premiership Experience
Miller will be assisted by compatriot Stuart Taylor, who has left his role as assistant manager at St Mirren to take up the number two position in Tel Aviv. Taylor, a former Airdrieonians and St Mirren midfielder, has previous managerial experience at Limerick and Hamilton Academical. His departure comes soon after Craig McLeish was confirmed as St Mirren’s new permanent manager, with the Scottish Premiership club stating they are "at an advanced stage of adding to our coaching staff".
What They're Saying
"Since joining Maccabi in January, Kenny has earned the respect of all of us with his professionalism, work ethic and understanding of the standards, values and ambitions expected at Maccabi Tel Aviv," said owner Mitch Goldhar.
Miller's sentiment was equally warm: "I've been overwhelmed by the support from the players, staff and fans. We have a platform to build on now, and I'm excited to take this club forward."
What's Next for Maccabi?
Maccabi Tel Aviv finished third in the Israeli Premier League last season, 12 points behind champions Maccabi Haifa. The club will look to Miller to mount a stronger title challenge and navigate the qualifying rounds of European competition. With the permanent appointment and the addition of Taylor, the Scots duo face the immediate task of reshaping the squad for the upcoming campaign.
Key Takeaways
- Kenny Miller wins the permanent Maccabi Tel Aviv job after an impressive caretaker spell that delivered the Israeli State Cup.
- Stuart Taylor leaves St Mirren to become Miller's assistant, continuing the Scottish connection in Tel Aviv.
- Maccabi will aim to bridge the gap to the top of the Israeli Premier League after finishing third last term.
- Miller's varied coaching background, from Livingston to Australia and England, has prepared him for this opportunity.
Source: BBC Sport