Exclusive: Kieran McKenna spotted in West Ham boardroom in new manager twist
Kieran McKenna was a surprise visitor in the West Ham United boardroom during their defeat to Tottenham on Saturday, sources have told Football Insider.
The Ipswich Town boss, wearing a jacket and jeans, had been invited to the London Stadium by the club for the match, which ended in a 3-0 derby defeat.
McKenna’s appearance at the home of West Ham came after his Ipswich side demolished Sheffield United 5-0 on Friday night.
It will fuel speculation that he is in pole position to replace Graham Potter as West Ham manager.
Potter’s position is under growing threat following a poor start to the season and amid growing unrest among supporters.
McKenna on West Ham manager shortlist
McKenna has impressed during his time at Ipswich, guiding the Tractor Boys to back-to-back promotions from League One to the Premier League, before relegation down to the Championship last season.
However, the 39-year-old is far from the only boss who has been linked with the manager job at the London Stadium over the past few weeks, as Potter continues to disappoint at the helm.
West Ham are reportedly interested in Jose Mourinho as a potential option, and the former Chelsea and Tottenham boss would be open to a move back to the Premier League.
The Hammers have also been linked with Nuno Espirito Santo, who was sacked by Nottingham Forest after falling out with controversial owner Evangelos Marinakis.
West Ham receive huge boost
Meanwhile, West Ham have been handed a “huge boost” for the season after Lucas Paqueta made clear his desire to stay.
That is according to their former chief scout, Mick Brown, who claims that Potter will be delighted to have kept a key player at the club.
The 28-year-old decided to snub a move away amid rumours of a switch to Aston Villa, while late interest from Saudi Pro League sides is also unlikely to bear fruit.
The Saudi transfer window is still open until 23 September, but the Brazilian’s firm decision to stick with West Ham has ended talk of any potential transfer.
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