Kieran McKenna no longer in running for Chelsea manager role

Ipswich Town’s Kieran McKenna is no longer a candidate for Chelsea’s managerial position, reducing the battle to three candidates.

McKenna has been on Chelsea’s shortlist after remarkably leading Ipswich to back-to-back promotions and securing a spot in the Premier League.

However, talkSPORT has now revealed that the Irishman is no longer in running for the position left vacant after Mauricio Pochettino’s departure.

Meanwhile, Brighton, confident in securing McKenna’s services, now see their chances bolstered as Chelsea narrows their search.

The Blues shortlist is now believed to include Roberto De Zerbi, Thomas Frank, and Enzo Maresca.

De Zerbi, who recently left Brighton by mutual consent, remains the primary target for Chelsea, although they will have to compensate his former club for his appointment.

Frank, on the other hand, is also a strong contender for the position, having led Brentford since 2016, qualifying them for Premier League in 2021.

He has kept Brentford stable in the top flight since then.

Maresca, who guided Leicester City to an immediate return to the Premier League as Championship title winners, is also in contention.

However, Chelsea would need to pay £7.5 million to release Maresca from his contract at Leicester.