New Ipswich Town boss Kieran McKenna is a 'coup' for the Tractorboys according to caretaker boss John McGreal.
Speaking to the EADT, McGreal revealed that the former Manchester United assistant manager would not be in charge for the visit of Sunderland this weekend, but there'll be 'no problem' if he wants to make contact from the stands.
The Tractorboys are currently sat in mid-table after a disappointing start to the season which saw them part company with Paul Cook.
READ MORE: Lee Johnson on how Leon Dajaku's form has been transformed over the last month
Ipswich made the move to appoint McKenna earlier this week and McGreal believes it's a "brilliant appointment."
"I'm biased, but I think it's a brilliant appointment," enthused McGreal.
“Listen, he’s been Manchester United’s assistant manager - let’s not forget about that.
“You only have to look at his track record, the players he’s integrated into the first team, the players he’s coached, the managers he’s coached under... it’s a quality CV to be fair!
“I think it’s a big appointment by the football club. I think it shows what direction the club is going.
“He’ll need our backing and we’ll all be here to give him that support."
McGreal continued: “Kieran actually rang me last night when I was at the Youth Cup game and we had a brief chat.
“I congratulated him and he’s really looking forward to it. Why wouldn’t you be? It’s Ipswich Town. It’s his first managerial job and it’s a great one to start with.
“He’ll have done his research. He’ll be well prepped and done all his homework on the players. He'll be coming with fresh ideas to get us on the right track.
“He’s got his Tottenham background as well as Man United. Listen, he’ll be well connected throughout the football world, there’s no doubt about that.
“I’m looking forward to seeing how he works because I’ve still got tonnes and tonnes to learn myself.
“The new owners have put their money where their mouth is with the players recruited. Now they’ve gone out and got a coup of a manager, a well-respected coach, so it’s a win-win."
The Black Cats ran out 1-0 winners at Portman Road last season as they kick started their run to the play-offs, but they'll face a different opposition this time out after a major rebuild in the summer.
When asked if McKenna would have a say regarding team selection tomorrow, McGreal said: "He’s said he wants us guys to take charge of this game and then he’ll start with a clean slate.
“But he’ll be in the stands and if he needs to make contact we’re open to that. There’s no problem with that at all. He’s the new gaffer – whatever he wants we’ll support him and try to supply for him."
