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 cost-cutting that is due to take place at the club; manager Ally McCoist refuted this. On 8 February 2014, Shiels scored a hat-trick in the Scottish Cup, as Rangers won 4–0 against Dunfermline Athletic. On 10 June 2016, Shiels left Rangers after his contract came to an end. He had made 43 appearances for Rangers in his final season with the club, as they won promotion to the Scottish Premiership. On 25 August 2016, Shiels signed for Dundalk in the League of Ireland Premier Division citing the "lure of European football" as one of the things that attracted him to