Jefferies believes his players will be motivated by their disappointing campaign to ensure they do not struggle again next year.

The Rugby Park club look set to finish second bottom of the SPL as they trail 10th-place St Mirren by three points with just one game remaining.

Jefferies said: "The season we've had will probably be the biggest motivation for next year.

"By the law of averages we surely won't have the same injury list. If we can add two or three players on top of the young players who have come through this year, then we'll do better. The players don't want to go through what they've been through this year again.

"So that will be a drive and a motivation. When they return back for pre-season training that is what we will be emphasising to them.

"We need to get off to a good start and get the momentum going. We've had a horrible season and we've not enjoyed it."

Jefferies believes his young players will benefit from the experience they have gained this season.

He said: "The younger kids that have come through, this will help them in their progress, they know what the SPL is all about now."