Kieran McKenna’s name has resurfaced in connection with the Celtic manager’s job, reigniting speculation around the highly-rated Ipswich Town head coach.
McKenna, 40, is currently priced at 16/1 to be in charge at Celtic Park for the opening game of next season, according to the latest betting markets.
The Scottish champions are weighing up their managerial options after veteran boss Martin O’Neill led the club to a domestic double.
Celtic’s hierarchy has already begun its search for a new manager, with O’Neill and Robbie Keane among the leading candidates being considered.
McKenna was previously heavily linked with the Parkhead post back in December, but he remained at Ipswich after the club sought a substantial compensation fee.
The Northern Irishman, a former Manchester United coach, led Ipswich to automatic promotion and will take the club back into the Premier League next season.
He had also been a favourite for the Celtic job when Wilfried Nancy was ultimately handed the role last year, making this a recurring storyline.
Ipswich striker George Hirst, currently part of Steve Clarke’s World Cup squad, says he is delighted McKenna chose to remain in Norfolk.
Hirst said: “Of course, you see the links with Kieran because no-one lives under a rock. But I’m delighted that he’s still with us.”
The striker added: “Hopefully he can stay even longer and make me an even better player. For Ipswich, we’ll always be a better club with him as manager.”
Hirst believes McKenna has fundamentally shaped his development, stating he would not be heading to a World Cup without the manager’s influence.
He said: “Kieran at Ipswich has transformed me as a player. I’ve had three and a half years now and I genuinely believe I wouldn’t be sitting here now if it wasn’t for him.”
Hirst also spoke warmly about international manager Steve Clarke, crediting both men for contributing to his growth in different ways.
He said: “They’ve both been absolutely brilliant for me in different ways. The gaffer here, Steve, gives me that straight talking attitude.”
Hirst described Clarke’s direct communication style as something he has always responded well to, comparing it to how his own father spoke with him.
He said: “He tells me, this is what you offer, this is what I see you offering — and you need to do that. I’ve always enjoyed that.”
Hirst reflected that while the two managers operate differently, both have demonstrated their methods work at the highest level.
He said: “Both are different managers but they have an incredible way of doing things. Both of them work, as you’ve seen with the success Steve has had here and what Kieran has done at Ipswich.”
The striker concluded that there is no singular correct approach to management, pointing to both men’s achievements as proof of that belief.
He said: “There’s no right or wrong way. Both managers have their own way of doing it and they’ve both been successful.”
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