Kieran McKenna expected to crush speculation with new Ipswich contract

Kieran McKenna, the Ipswich manager, is set to sign a new deal and lead the team into their first season back in the Premier League.

McKenna was thought to be one among the possibilities to replace Mauricio Pochettino at Chelsea, and he has also been connected with Manchester United.

However, discussions over a new arrangement at Portman Road are well underway, with only the final details to be worked out.

McKenna was recently named League Managers Association manager of the year after leading Ipswich to promotion, ending a 22-year exile from the English top division.

The 38-year-old, who took over Town in December 2021, received his second consecutive promotion.

McKenna was reportedly on a three-man shortlist for the Chelsea post, alongside Brentford’s Thomas Frank and Enzo Maresca, who led Leicester to the Sky Bet Championship title.

According to rumors, Maresca is currently the leading candidate to take over at Stamford Bridge.

McKenna, a former Manchester United development coach, was also connected with Brighton’s empty position as well as Erik ten Hag’s, with the Dutchman unclear about his future after leading his club to a Manchester derby FA Cup final victory on Saturday.

But Ipswich fans are about to get a big lift after their boss reiterated his devotion to the club.

McKenna signed a four-year contract last summer that goes until 2027.