New Ipswich Town boss Kieran McKenna has admitted it was a tough call to leave Manchester United after he was named as the boss of the League One side.

The 35-year-old emerged as a surprising contender to succeed Paul Cook yesterday, with an announcement confirming his arrival last night. It's McKenna's first managerial role in the game, although he does have high level experience as a coach with both Tottenham and the Red Devils.

However, he decided to swap Old Trafford for Portman Road to become the main man, and whilst he's excited about the challenge ahead, McKenna did admit it was a 'difficult' call.

"Leaving a club like Manchester United was obviously a difficult decision, but I strongly believe in the opportunity to build something here. It feels like the right time, project and Club to make my first step into first-team management," he told the official site.

McKenna will be assisted by Martyn Pert, who also worked at United, and the duo will officially begin their work on Monday, with the Suffolk outfit playing Sunderland this weekend.

The verdict

This is an honest view from McKenna as whilst he would've appreciated the chance to be a manager in his own right, it's still a tough decision to leave a club like Manchester United.

But, he clearly feels he is ready for the opportunity to be the main man at a club, and you have to say that the Ipswich job is a hugely attractive one and a great role to get considering his age and lack of experience.

So, he now has to show why he is highly regarded and help this talented squad up the table after an inconsistent first half of the campaign.

Thoughts? Let us know in the comments below.