Palace Has Failed in Move For McKenna

Crystal Palace’s bid to persuade Town manager Kieran McKenna to Selhurst Park appears to have failed.

According to The Guardian, chairman Steve Parish has spoken with McKenna’s representatives about the manager’s position at Crystal Palace, who are now 15th in the Premier League.

However, it is understood that the 37-year-old is unwilling to leave Portman Road while the Blues are vying for Premier League promotion, with Palace hoping that he will take over at Selhurst Park at the end of the season.

The Northern Irishman, who took over at Portman Road in December 2021, signed a new contract with Town in June last year that runs until the summer of 2027, and it is believed that any club looking to replace him would have to pay significant compensation, potentially up to £4 million, according to previous reports.

The Eagles are currently led by Roy Hodgson, but their recent slump (two wins in 13 league games) has fueled talk that a change would be made, with McKenna one bookmaker’s 7-4 favourite to succeed the former England manager.

McKenna, who has also been linked with the West Ham manager’s post, was questioned about the Palace interest at last week’s news conference and stated his focus was solely on Town.

“My full focus, full commitment is with Ipswich and the season that we’re having and the next game ahead, so that’s where all my energy is and all my commitment is,” he went on to say.

“To be honest, I don’t pay attention to it. This is not the first time in recent years. If you’re doing well, it will be there, with links.

“Football may also work the other way quite quickly. I’ll just concentrate on the day-to-day operations here.

“As I’ve said before, I’m very proud and honoured to manage this football club and I’m enjoying doing so and will continue to do the best I can.”