Keiran McKenna. His record with a very average Ipswich squad is absolutely outstanding.
Under the previous regime I would have said too young / too inexperienced....but with Ashworth & Wilcox to assist as part of a new sporting structure made up of experts I believe he could thrive and become a truly world-class Head Coach.
Remember SJR has talked about "how its not that clever signing Mbappe" and how the focus should be on "unearthing the next Mbappe" etc...what's to say he doesn't encourage a similar view when it comes to appointing the most exciting young coach in England?
Plus, we talk about a coach's ability to manage big players / big egos...but I think we're all agreed on here we need a move away from these types towards hungry young players. Young squad, young manager, new energy...with a world class team in the Boardroom it could work
There's not doubt that McKenna is doing a brilliant job at Ipswich. But I think people underestimate the quality of players he's managing.
Even when Ipswich were in League One, they were able to recruit players with PL and Championship experience. Walton, Ladapo, Ball, Davis, Keogh, Luongo, Broadhead, Clarke and Hirst.
They operated like a Championship club.
They've been able to bridge the gap between League One and The Championship by making good use of the loan market. McKenna is renowned for his work at Academy level at both Spurs and United. There were reports that some United players didn't like his methods during his time as Solskajer's assistant. So maybe he suits working with young players who are eager to learn and moldable. Ipswich have loaned in Williams, Hutchinson, Scarlett and Sarmiento this season. They have all came from PL Academy systems and have experienced PL football. They've brought in other players with PL/Championship experience as well. Tuanzebe, Taylor, Travis and Moore.
They've navigated the market quite well to build a competitive squad without having to spend a fortune.
Also, it's very early to judge McKenna. We saw Kompany dominate The Championship last season. Farke has been a brilliant Championship manager, but hasn't found The PL easy.
Back to back League One and Championship promotions were achieved twice just over 10 years ago by Nigel Adkins and Paul Lambert. Neither went on to become top managers.
The jury is still out on McKenna. Lambert also looked like a top young coach before failing at Villa.