Kieran McKenna reacts to speculations over Chelsea job following Mauricio Pochettino departure

Kieran McKenna has been considered as a potential successor to Mauricio Pochettino and Erik ten Hag. He has now spoken out on his future at newly promoted Ipswich Town.

Kieran McKenna believes that conjecture over his status is understandable in light of links to Chelsea and Manchester United.

Following his time at Portman Road, the Ipswich manager has established himself as one of the country’s most promising young managers. He has guided the club to successive promotions from League One to the Premier League.

Chelsea is one of the clubs interested, with him being named as a potential successor to Mauricio Pochettino, who resigned by mutual consent on Tuesday. McKenna has also been linked with a return to Manchester United to replace the underperforming Erik ten Hag.

After being named LMA Manager of the Year, McKenna was questioned about his future. He stated such conjecture was to be expected following a strong couple of seasons.

The 38-year-old told Sky Sports: “The team has had such a fantastic season and such a bright future. We’ve accomplished so much; it’s been an unbelievable two years, and there’s always gossip and the like, which happens every summer.

“But I know how much everyone is looking forward to the season; I know the club is on the right track, and everyone is excited for the season ahead. When you do well as a manager or a player, there is always speculation, and I realize what we’ve accomplished isn’t typical, so there will be speculation.

“To be honest, that is not my primary concern. Tonight, it’s about what we accomplished last season and throughout the last few seasons, not just me but everyone in the football club.

“that’s been a beautiful couple of years, and tonight is about enjoying that. I know everyone is looking forward to next season, and the club will be in a very excellent position.”

Chelsea and Manchester United are not the only clubs interested in signing McKenna in the near future. Premier League opponents Brighton have also expressed interest in him following Roberto De Zerbi’s departure from the Amex Stadium.

McKenna has only one year left on his current contract. He is, however, just one name in what appears to be a managerial merry-go-round this summer.

Pochettino is also a candidate to replace Erik ten Hag as Manchester United manager if the latter is fired. Chelsea also has a strong roster of alternatives, including Thomas Frank, Sebastian Hoeness, Enzo Maresca, Michel, and Vincent Kompany.