Kettlewell’s attacking, yet pragmatic, style of play has been commended.
He has been consistent in his selections, with George Stanger, Lewis Mayo and Robbie Deas making a solid back-three.
Jamie Brandon and youngster Ben Brannan were first-choice wing-backs and excelled, although both have been struck down with injury of late.
Up top, Marcus Dackers and Djenairo Daniels have formed a physical partnership after arriving in the summer.
The real star though, has been David Watson. The midfielder was frequently left on the bench by former manager Derek McInnes in the second half of last season but has been given a new lease of life.
Kettlewell has previous with young talents – Lennon Miller was his ingenue at Motherwell – and Watson has also been full of praise for his new boss.
“He’s been helpful, not just for me, but for other young lads,” the 20-year-old said. “He’s been brilliant. There’s young boys training every day, so it opens up opportunities for academy players.”
Fans want to see their team win, but they want to see them play well and see young players come through.
So far, Kettlewell is ticking those boxes. He’s even started turning round the away form – Kilmarnock have won one of their past 15 on the road in the league before the win at Tannadice.
It’s early days, but the signs are promising. Keep up the performances, and the results should start coming.
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