Kenny Shiels radio interview, which he was banned for four matches, as well with the club were found guilty of failing to ensure that Shiels complies with SFA protocol., Kilmarnock the decided to terminate his contract, citing a poor home record in 2012–13 and the punishments by the SFA. His sacking was criticised by many players from past and present, especially the club's supporters. Shortly after being sacked, Shiels spoke of his sacking by giving an interview to BBC Scotland's Stevie Miller and described his departure left him "heartbroken". Since leaving Kilmarnock, Shiels continued been on the football spotlight, having been linked
Dean Shiels to join Rangers. He scored a goal, as well as, setting up two goals in his first appearance, in a Scottish League Cup tie against East Fife on 7 August. A week after he sustained an injury during a match which ruled him out for weeks, On 2 September 2012, Shiels scored his first league goal, as well as setting up a goal, in a 5–1 win over Elgin City. After scoring two goals in three games, Shiels scored against the Scottish Premier League side Motherwell, in a Scottish League Cup tie. Then, in the Scottish Cup, Shiels scored twice