How Chelsea could line up under Kieran McKenna

Chelsea’s hunt for a new manager may end up taking them to Ipswich Town’s Kieran McKenna.

If you want an up-and-coming boss, few in English football come with the same intrigue as McKenna, who led Ipswich to the Premier League thanks to consecutive promotions – a feat which almost defies all logic.

Should he make the move to Stamford Bridge, here’s how McKenna may line up.

Limited high-level options may just convince McKenna to stick with Petrovic, whose first season at Chelsea was solid without verging into spectacular.

McKenna wants his goalkeeper to be comfortable with the ball at their feet and willing to play long at times, so he could definitely show some interest in Robert Sanchez, but Petrovic may get the chance to continue working on his game with the ball at his feet.

Those who watch McKenna’s Ipswich will know all about Leif Davis, the left-back who is encouraged to get as high as possible and fire crosses in like they’re going out of style. Davis bagged 21 assists in 43 games last season, and Chelsea fans would love to see that output from James over on the opposite side.

Focusing on James would require a complete flip of McKenna’s tactics but it should prove worth it, with James undoubtedly one of the best right-backs in the world when his legs allow him to be.

Pochettino never got the chance to work with Fofana but the Frenchman should be back from his ACL injury in time to remind whoever’s in charge just what he’s about.

McKenna’s Ipswich often find themselves in incredibly open games, which calls for both agility and stamina from defenders. If Fofana gets back to his best after his injury, expect him to play a big role next season.

The first new signing in this squad is Castello Lukeba, who is reported to be back on Chelsea’s radar once again. The left-footed defender was admired by the Blues before he joined RB Leipzig last summer and would make a smart addition to this squad because of his versatility.

Lukeba is similar to the likes of Manchester City duo Nathan Ake and Josko Gvardiol – two natural centre-backs who can thrive in an inverted role as well. He fits two roles under McKenna.

Some Chelsea fans may be frustrated to see…