In a book honoring the team’s promotion to the Premier League, Kieran McKenna, the Ipswich Town manager from ENNISKILLEN, has been lauded for his practical strategy and tactical acumen.
Deborah O and Reho Josh’s book, Ipswich Town: Revolution of Kieran McKenna – The Game Changer, examines the season in which Ipswich made a comeback to the best league in England.
Earlier this month, McKenna led Ipswich to a victory over Queens Park Rangers, winning them a spot in the Premier League.
The club’s turnaround has been largely attributed to the Enniskillen native.
A lot of praise
“Kieran McKenna, a young manager making waves in his very first senior role, was at the heart of this amazing renaissance,” the book claims.
McKenna not only managed a team, but he also created it from scratch, embedding a development ethos that is highly sought after in today’s game.
McKenna is what his former boss George Burley refers to as a “tracksuit manager,” in contrast to others in the field. He is someone who is highly involved in daily training and committed to enhancing each player.
“His hands-on attitude was crucial in turning Ipswich into a formidable force. “
Local talent
McKenna is also portrayed in the article as a contemporary coach who emphasizes structure, specifics, and the growth of players over the long run.
His accomplishment was met with great local pride, including from Cumann na mBunscol Fermanagh.
Their tribute stated, “When a student in St. Paul’s Primary School Irvinestown with our former chairman Fergal McCann as his teacher, Kieran was a star player in Cumann na mBunscol competitions. “
“‘Cumann na mBunscol – 50 Bliain ag Fás’ has a Fermanagh chapter that includes Kieran. We’re excited to see you back in Fermanagh in the summer, Kieran, and we hope you have a great time with the festivities.
