Lee McCulloch is expected to sign a three-year contract to become permanent manager of Kilmarnock by the end of the week, STV understands.

The former player, who has been working as interim boss since the departure of Lee Clark in February, will commit to becoming the long-term manager at Rugby Park, barring any last-minute hitches.

The 39-year old is currently on holiday but will return to Scotland on Friday and the deal is expected to be concluded soon after.

McCulloch's prospects of securing the role on a permanent basis had been set aside while Kilmarnock looked to preserve their Premiership place.

Club director Billy Bowie said on the last day of the season he was keen for McCulloch to remain but any deal had to be right for all parties concerned.

Having steered the club to safety, the interim manager said he expected talks on his future to take place quickly.

Those discussions have proved fruitful and the coach will now be tasked with improving on the side's eighth place finish in the league last season.