Kieran McKenna has emerged as a surprise candidate to succeed Gareth Southgate as England manager, according to sources.
The Three Lions are looking for a new first-team manager eight years after Gareth Southgate resigned following their defeat in the Euro 2024 final against Spain.
Graham Potter, Eddie Howe, and Lee Carsley have all been mentioned as candidates to succeed Southgate, but McKenna has now joined the list.
According to The Sun, the Ipswich manager has emerged as an FA candidate after leading the Tractor Boys to consecutive promotions.
They also claim that FA technical director John McDermott is ‘a tremendous fan’ of McKenna, having worked with him as a Tottenham development coach.
Furthermore, it is reported that the FA does not believe the new manager must be English, giving Northern Irishman McKenna a strong opportunity.
Following his strong performances at Portman Road, McKenna was linked with a number of Premier League clubs, but the 38-year-old ultimately signed a new contract in May.
‘I am incredibly happy to have signed a new deal with the club,’ said McKenna, whose contract is up until 2028.
‘We’ve had amazing success together over the last two seasons, and I’m thrilled to have the privilege and responsibility of leading this fantastic club into its first season in the Premier League after 22 years.
‘Preparation and planning for the task ahead has been ongoing since we gained promotion in early May, with lots of work still to be done before the start of the new season, which is such an exciting moment for everyone at the club.
‘I am overjoyed to have committed my future to taking the next step with Ipswich Town, and I am very enthusiastic for what lies ahead as we continue this adventure together.
Manchester United, who was still debating Erik ten Hag’s future, spoke with McKenna in the run-up to the FA Cup final, while Chelsea and Brighton also shown interest.
Ipswich will compete in the Premier League for the first time since 2001-02, having been promoted from the Championship at the first attempt.
His success with a team that had previously been in decline had made him one of the most sought-after managers in the country.
