Kieran McKenna, the current manager of Ipswich Town, has emerged as a surprise contender for the England job. The Football Association (FA) is in search of a successor for Gareth Southgate, and McKenna is now considered a potential candidate. Despite being born in London, McKenna played for the Northern Ireland Under-21s, adding an interesting dynamic to his candidacy.
While Eddie Howe, Graham Potter, and Lee Carsley are seen as the favorites for the position, McKenna’s recent success at Ipswich, including back-to-back promotions, has caught the attention of the FA. FA technical director John McDermott, who previously worked with McKenna during his time as a youth coach at Tottenham, holds him in high regard. McDermott, who was the head of coaching and development at Spurs, witnessed firsthand McKenna’s abilities and achievements.
In 2016, McKenna joined Manchester United as the Under-18s chief and quickly climbed the ranks to become the first-team assistant boss. His impressive performance attracted interest from top clubs such as Chelsea, Brighton, and even United themselves at the end of last season. However, McKenna chose to sign a new £5 million deal with Ipswich, demonstrating his commitment to the club.
Despite the FA’s preference for an English manager, they do not rule out the possibility of appointing a foreign coach. Mauricio Pochettino, Thomas Tuchel, and Joachim Low have all expressed interest in the position. The FA has outlined seven requirements for the next England manager, including holding a UEFA Pro License, having significant experience in English football, and being an exceptional leader.
England’s next game is a Nations League clash against Ireland on September 7. If a permanent appointment is not made by then, Lee Carsley, who is also a strong candidate for the job, could take on the role as an interim coach. The FA is attracted to Carsley’s candidacy, as they wouldn’t have to pay compensation for him or Graham Potter, the former Chelsea boss.
Despite the interest from the FA, McKenna is reportedly content at Ipswich, and the club is determined to keep him. McKenna has led Ipswich back to the Premier League for the first time since 2002, and the club values his leadership and success. It remains to be seen who will ultimately take charge of the England national team, but McKenna’s unexpected rise as a contender adds an intriguing twist to the search for Southgate’s successor.