Liam Rosenior in frame for Ipswich Town role after Kieran McKenna’s shock departure

Liam Rosenior has emerged as a leading contender to take charge of Ipswich Town following Kieran McKenna’s surprise decision to step away from management.

The newly promoted Premier League side have been forced into an unexpected search for a new manager after McKenna opted to leave his position and take a break from football.

McKenna, who guided Ipswich back to the top flight, announced that he would step down from his role to spend more time with his family. His departure has left the club seeking a successor capable of steering them through what is expected to be a demanding Premier League campaign.

With survival now the immediate objective, Ipswich are assessing a number of candidates as preparations continue for the new season.

Rosenior among leading options

According to reports from journalist Alex Crook, Rosenior is one of the names under serious consideration.

The former Chelsea manager is currently without a job after a difficult spell at Stamford Bridge. His tenure lasted only 107 days and ended with his dismissal following a disappointing run of results.

Rosenior won just one of his final eight matches in charge, a victory over Port Vale, before Chelsea decided to part ways with the 41-year-old. Despite that setback, his previous managerial experience and reputation as a progressive coach have reportedly kept him firmly on Ipswich’s radar.

The prospect of returning quickly to management could offer Rosenior an opportunity to rebuild his reputation at a club embarking on a new chapter.

Gary O’Neil also under consideration

Current Strasbourg boss Gary O’Neil is another manager being linked with the vacancy.

O’Neil’s future at the French club has come under scrutiny after Strasbourg narrowly missed out on European qualification. Reports suggest the former Premier League manager is dissatisfied with the situation at the club, which is part of the BlueCo ownership structure.

His experience in English football and familiarity with the challenges of top-flight survival make him an attractive option for Ipswich as they weigh up potential appointments.

While no decision has yet been made, Rosenior and O’Neil have emerged as the standout candidates as Ipswich move to fill the void left by McKenna’s unexpected exit and prepare for life back in the Premier League.