'To manage this club has been an absolute privilege' - McKenna on leaving Ipswich

[PA Media] Departing Ipswich Town boss Kieran McKenna says managing the club has been "an absolute privilege" as he prepares to take a step back from management after nearly five year with the Tractor Boys. The former Manchester United and Tottenham youth coach stated he is taking this break to spend some time with his family after a whirlwind four-and-a-half seasons with the team, gaining back-to-back promotions to reach the Premier League in 2024. Speaking to the club's website, McKenna said: "It is with a mixture of gratitude, pride, sadness and contentment that I have decided to step down from the honour of managing this historic football club. "When you have the connection that we have built at this club there is never a good time to say goodbye. However, having achieved a second promotion to the Premier League last season, with another memorable final day in our stadium, and after reflection over the last couple of weeks, I feel this is the right time for me to step aside. I do so with great pride at the incredible progress we have made and with huge hope and optimism for the future of the club. "To manage this club has been an absolute privilege. Over the last five seasons we have been on an incredible journey that has brought so many of the best experiences in my professional and personal life. "After giving so much to the role over the previous five seasons, I now look forward to taking a break from management and dedicating some time to my family, who have been with me every step of my career so far. "There are so many people I would like to thank who have played their part in this journey. Firstly, to Mark Ashton and the Board for giving me the opportunity, at 35 years old, to manage such a massive football club, and for the unwavering support and trust they have shown ever since. "To my coaching staff and all the wonderful staff at Portman Road and our Playford Road training centre, who work tirelessly to progress the club in every way. To all of the players who have represented the club with professionalism and passion over the past five years. "Most importantly, thank you to the amazing fans and supporters of Ipswich Town. You have followed this football club through wonderful highs and difficult lows. I will be forever grateful for the way that you welcomed myself and my family, both to the football club and to the county of Suffolk. I will cherish the memories that we have shared together for the rest of my life. "Ipswich Town will always have a special place in our hearts." Get in touch with your thoughts on McKenna's departure here