Kilmarnock have confirmed a star has left their ranks ahead of meeting Hearts.

Kilmarnock have confirmed the exit of striker Marcus Dackers ahead of their clash with Hearts on Saturday night.

The Jambos go to the side managed by ex-player Neil McCann looking to make their gap in first place at the Premiership summit as large as eight points, should Motherwell defeat second-placed Celtic a few hours earlier. At the very least, they will look to maintain their five-point lead, against a team fighting for survival at the other end of the table.

McCann has already lost key forward Tyreece John-Jules to a season-ending injury and towering striker Marcus Dackers has now departed for South Korean side Daegu FC. He joined last summer from Salford City and netted four times, with Joe Hugill and Bruce Anderson now amongst McCann’s fit options as natural centre forwards. The move surprised Dackers’ family but it’s one he was excited to make.

Who has Marcus Dackers signed for?

He told club media: “I am really excited to be here, it’s a really good opportunity for me, and I can’t wait to meet the fans. To feel the atmosphere for the first time. As soon as I found out the deal could be done, I wanted to do it. I spoke to my family and at first they were surprised. Eventually, they were really happy for me and it’s a great opportunity for me.

“Firstly, I will work really hard for the team. I will look to receive the ball from the midfielders and defenders and bring other players into the play. I will also look to run in behind. I'm very tall but I have good mobility for my size. I'll look to use my size and my speed as well to impact the game as much as possible.

“I did some research. I see there's a really big club and I know the fans are very passionate in Korea. Of course, I know a few of the teams already. As soon as I did some more research, it made the opportunity even more exciting to know how much football means to Koreans.

Kilmarnock on Marcus Dackers exit

“I think when I found out that Daegu is trying to get promoted, it makes me want to come even more. Just because it means we will play a lot of attacking football. Trying to get promoted is the main goal. I'm sure I will be there to help and try to play a big part. Daegu fans, I can't wait to meet you. I look forward to scoring some goals in front of you, getting some wins and getting the promotion. See you soon. We are Daegu.”

A Killie statement reads: “Kilmarnock FC can confirm that Marcus Dackers has completed a move to Daegu FC of the K League 2 in South Korea for an undisclosed fee. The forward joined Killie in the summer of 2025 and went on to make 30 appearances in Blue and White, scoring four goals during his time at Rugby Park.

“Marcus made a positive contribution to the squad throughout his spell in Ayrshire, showing commitment and professionalism whenever called upon. Everyone at Kilmarnock FC would like to thank Marcus for his efforts and wish him every success in this next chapter of his career in South Korea.