Chelsea eye Ipswich boss as leading candidate should Pochettino leave | OneFootball

Chelsea have identified Ipswich manager Kieran McKenna as a leading candidate to replace Mauricio Pochettino ahead of the club’s end-of-season review.

Pochettino’s position is uncertain ahead of a scheduled meeting with the club’s hierarchy at the end of the campaign following a mixed debut season at Stamford Bridge.

Despite heavy investment again last summer, Chelsea are sixth in the Premier League table, with only a run of improved late season results having carried the Blues into contention for Europe.

Chelsea will confirm a place in Europe with a point at home to Bournemouth on Sunday, though it may not be enough to secure Pochettino’s future.

According to The Guardian, there is no ‘clear consensus’ from the Chelsea board on whether Pochettino will continue next season.

McKenna has emerged as one of the leading names in contention to replace Pochettino should the Argentine be sacked, having impressed during his time at Ipswich Town.

The 38-year-old has led the Tractor Boys to back-to-back promotions across the last two seasons and Ipswich will play in the Premier League for the first time since 2001/02 next season.

McKenna began his coaching career in the Tottenham academy before spending five years at Manchester United, where he worked as an assistant to Jose Mourinho and Ole Gunnar Solskjaer.

His former club have checked in on his progress since McKenna stepped into senior management, amid doubts over Erik ten Hag, while Brighton are also said to be interested following the news that Roberto De Zerbi will leave the club.

Read – De Zerbi: Four potential destinations for outgoing Brighton manager

See more – Fantasy Premier League: Three essential tips ahead of FPL Gameweek 38

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