Ipswich Town manager Kieran McKenna was quick to dedicate his Championship Manager of the Year award to all those who have helped him on his journey.

The Blues boss picked up the gong at the EFL Awards at Grosvenor House, London on Sunday night, beating competition from Daniel Farke (Leeds) and Liam Rosenior (Hull). 

It's recognition of the remarkable job he's done in leading table-topping Town to a record number of points for a newly-promoted Championship club with three games still to play. 

"It's early in my managerial career, but I think people know there have been a lot of years of hard work to get to this point," said the 37-year-old, who started coaching when a chronic hip injury cut short his career at Tottenham in his early 20s.

"Just being manager of this football club is something that gives me great pride every day, but to be recognised in this way is a nice moment. It's a reflection of so many people at the club and so many people who have helped me on my my journey.

East Anglian Daily Times: Kieran McKenna walks to the stage to receive his Championship Manager of the Year award.Kieran McKenna walks to the stage to receive his Championship Manager of the Year award. (Image: Shutterstock)

"I'm blessed with the coaching staff that I have in Martyn (Pert), Charlie (Turnbull), Lee (Grant) and Rene (Gilmartin). All the backroom staff behind them as well.

"I'm very privileged to have the people I have supporting me to help the players get better every day. Their loyalty and friendship means a lot. They've helped create the atmosphere that we have within the training ground and that spreads to other parts of the football club.

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"It's also a proud moment for my family, who've given me so much support on my journey.

"This is for the whole football club. Manager of the Year is the outcome of so many peoples' good and hard work. 

"Getting awards like this along the way is nice, it's great to get that external recognition, but it doesn't change the day-to-day work that's going to be so important for us to continue on our journey.

 

"We've got three big games left and our our motivation couldn't be any higher. We'll keep giving everything we can."

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