Kieran McKenna ’emerges as shock contender for the England job’ after Gareth Southgate’s departure… with FA technical director ‘a huge fan’ of the Ipswich boss
- The Ipswich manager has emerged as a contender to replace Gareth Southgate
- McKenna has previously been linked with Premier League jobs
- However, he signed a four-year contract with the newly promoted club in May
Kieran McKenna is reportedly a surprise contender to succeed Gareth Southgate as England manager.
The Three Lions are looking for a new first-team manager, eight years after Gareth Southgate stepped down following their Euro 2024 final defeat to Spain.
Names such as Graham Potter, Eddie Howe and Lee Carsley have all been involved in the discussions over who should succeed Southgate, but now McKenna has joined the list.
According to The sunThe Ipswich manager has become a candidate for the English Football Association after winning two successive promotions with the Tractor Boys.
They also claim that the FA’s technical director John McDermott is considered to be ‘a big fan’ of McKenna, having worked with him when he was Tottenham’s youth coach.
Ipswich manager Kieran McKenna is a surprise candidate for the England job
Gareth Southgate stepped down from his role after England’s defeat in the 2024 European Championship final to Spain
Furthermore, it is claimed that the English Football Association does not believe the next manager should be an Englishman, which gives Northern Irishman McKenna a good chance.
Following his impressive work at Portman Road, McKenna was linked with several Premier League clubs, but the 38-year-old signed a new contract in May.
“I am extremely proud to have signed a new contract with the club,” said McKenna, whose contract runs until 2028.
‘We have enjoyed incredible success together over the last two seasons and I am delighted to be given the opportunity and responsibility to lead this fantastic club into its first season in the Premier League in 22 years.
‘Preparations and planning for the challenge ahead have been underway since we were promoted at the beginning of May, and there is still much work to be done before the new season begins, at a time when it is such an exciting time for everyone at the club.
‘I am so pleased to have been able to commit my future to the next step at Ipswich Town and I am very much looking forward to what lies ahead as we continue this journey together.’
His work at Ipswich has seen them return to the top flight for the first time since 2001-02.
FA technical director John McDermott (left) is believed to be a ‘big fan’ of McKenna
Manchester United – who were still considering the future of Erik ten Hag – held talks with McKenna in the run-up to the FA Cup final, while Chelsea and Brighton were also interested.
Ipswich begin their first Premier League campaign since 2001-02 after securing promotion from the Championship in one go.
His performances with a team previously in decline made him one of the most sought-after managers in the country.