Ipswich Town’s current manager, Kieran McKenna, is being evaluated as a potential candidate for the managerial position at Crystal Palace.
This comes as the Eagles are making preparations for life beyond their current manager, Roy Hodgson, as reported by journalist Alan Nixon.
Roy Hodgson assumed the role of Palace’s manager earlier this year following Patrick Vieira’s departure from Selhurst Park.
Hodgson, a seasoned manager, managed to guide his team to an 11th-place finish in the Premier League last season, despite initial concerns of relegation.
Hodgson’s success has carried over into the current season, with Palace even securing a 1-0 victory over Manchester United at Old Trafford in their recent match. However, it appears that the 76-year-old former England manager is unlikely to continue with Palace beyond this season.
Kieran McKenna, currently at the helm of Ipswich Town, is one of several notable candidates being considered to potentially replace Hodgson when he departs the South London club.
Kieran McKenna’s Managerial Journey It is not surprising to see McKenna linked with potential Premier League opportunities.
At 37 years old, he has transformed Ipswich Town’s fortunes since taking over as manager. Under his leadership, the team emerged from League One, achieving automatic promotion in his first season with an impressive 98 points. During that campaign, McKenna’s squad showcased their attacking prowess, scoring 101 goals in 46 matches.
Ipswich has smoothly transitioned to the Championship, currently occupying the second position with seven wins out of nine matches.
Their recent 1-1 draw against Huddersfield demonstrated their ability to fight for points when needed, with Manchester United loanee Brandon Williams scoring a late equalizer.
McKenna earned high regard within the Manchester United structure while serving as the U18s manager and assistant manager.
However, he had to leave Old Trafford to establish himself as a manager in his own right. He has certainly accomplished that, with 54 wins in 91 games during his tenure at Ipswich.
Would McKenna Be Tempted by a New Challenge? It remains to be seen whether Crystal Palace will pursue McKenna and attempt to lure him away from Portman Road. Currently, the 37-year-old seems settled at Ipswich, with his focus on securing another promotion for the club.
However, McKenna might be enticed by the prospect of testing his skills at Crystal Palace, especially if Ipswich cannot sustain their strong start in the Championship over the grueling 46-game season.
Ipswich fans will undoubtedly hope that McKenna remains loyal to the club, dismissing any interest from Crystal Palace to continue his tenure in Suffolk.
Writer’s Perspective At present, Kieran McKenna is one of the most exciting managers in English football. His Ipswich team plays an attractive and attacking style of football that has captivated fans at Portman Road.
Their on-field results align with their entertaining style, making Ipswich a team that enjoys life in the Championship.
However, there is a concern that accompanies their success – the possibility of McKenna being courted by a Premier League club.
If Ipswich continues to excel, the interest in McKenna’s services may extend beyond Crystal Palace. For now, Ipswich should savor their current moment, as they have experienced a remarkable resurgence after years in the League One wilderness.
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