‘Unbelievable’: Kieran McKenna shares the reason why he renewed Ipswich deal

Kieran McKenna, the manager of Ipswich Town, has stated that he did not need to be encouraged to sign a new deal despite being associated with some of the country’s top clubs.

The 38-year-old was the subject of significant conjecture, with Manchester United, Chelsea, and Brighton & Hove Albion all apparently interested in signing him after he helped the Blues win back-to-back promotions.

CEO Mark Ashton was asked what he needed to do to persuade McKenna to stay, but before he could respond, the manager interrupted.

He claimed that the interest in him was unavoidable, and that while he needed to make a decision about his future, he didn’t need anyone to remind him of what he had at Town.

“It’s not about convincing,” McKenna said on Town TV. “I’ve had great ties with Mark and everyone at the football club. I don’t need Mark or anybody else to tell me about the incredible opportunity, friends, and atmosphere that I’ve found here.

“From my perspective, it is not about convincing. Sometimes it’s a personal decision, and part of that decision is experiencing the tremendous support that I’ve received.”

“He’s spot on,” Ashton added. The last few weeks must have been difficult for him. Not only did he have to deal with the conjecture, but he also had to debate McKenna’s future and make plans for his promotion to the Premier League.

“There’s been a lot to talk about because, when we’re in the season, we’ve got Saturday – Tuesday, Saturday – Wednesday games,” he said.

“Everything revolves on winning, and we’ve got to debate how to plan for next season and what it will look like. We’ve had discussions about the training ground, Portman Road, and players.

“With success come obstacles. I understand that there has been a lot of external noise, but it hasn’t been very internal.

“I’ve mentioned this to the fans numerous times, and I’m grateful to the number of fans who have written in to remind me: ‘You’ve told us to trust the process, Mark. Trust the process yourself.

“I suppose the frustration is that you want to talk to the fans at times but can’t because you have to focus on your profession. But, once again, don’t listen to the outside world, the media, or social media; the club will inform you as soon as possible about what is going on.