Kilmarnock boss Neil McCann is brimming with pride and relief as his side prepares for their season finale against Livingston—a game that carries the sweet scent of survival rather than the bitter taste of a relegation dogfight.

After Tuesday night's crucial victory over Dundee, McCann admitted to feeling "a lot of relief but also elation." He added with a satisfied smile: "It's nice to sit here and know we're going to be in the Premiership next year." The win wasn't just about escaping the drop—it was a testament to the resilience of a squad that has defied expectations.

McCann heaped praise on his players, calling their turnaround "remarkable." "The dressing room have done an incredible job to get to where we are right now," he said, emphasizing the collective effort that has defined their campaign. Since his appointment in January, Kilmarnock have surged to fourth in the form table—a feat McCann describes as "really pleasing" and "just another example of how good the group have been." He added with a hint of pride: "They did it with a bit of style as well."

With no pressure on Sunday's trip to Livingston, some might expect the Killie boss to ease up. Not so. "We'll not take our foot off the gas," McCann insisted. "We want to go there and finish the season on a high with a win." He's equally determined to "reward the fans with three points," which he believes "should set us into the close season in a real positive mindset."

When asked about giving youth players a runout, McCann admitted it's "still a decision to make." "I would love to if I could," he said, "but equally the team who have been training every day have been training to such a high level." It's a delicate balance between rewarding young talent and maintaining the momentum that has carried them to safety.

Looking ahead, McCann revealed he's already begun planning for next season—a "wee bit of a luxury" that comes with knowing their top-flight status is secure. For Kilmarnock fans, that early start signals a manager who isn't just relieved to survive but hungry to thrive.