No Kieran McKenna Celtic FC Talks as Bellamy Commits to Wales
Ipswich's manager and Wales head coach have been connected with the Celtic vacancy
Ipswich Town's their manager says he has had "no discussions" with the Glasgow club about their managerial vacancy, while Wales head coach Craig Bellamy is dedicated to seeing out his squad's international campaign.
Each are being considered with the coaching position at the Scottish champions following Brendan Rodgers' resignation on the start of the week.
The Manager's Stance on Celtic
McKenna described Celtic as "an enormous football club" but emphasized he is "deeply involved" of a "extensive rebuilding" with Ipswich Town.
The mid-thirties took charge of Portman Road in 2021 and guided the team to the English top flight with back-to-back promotions, but they won just four games last campaign as they were demoted back to the second division and they currently sit 12th in England's second tier.
"There have been any of those discussions," the English capital native ex- Irish youth international said when questioned about being on the candidate list.
"This isn't a matter I have given any thought to, or where any part of my concentration is this week.
"I have a special position here at a remarkable club. And we're at a really important phase of the campaign. Anything external hasn't reached my radar."
Background and Agreement Aspects
Reports indicate that McKenna would be willing to talk to the Scottish side given his childhood support.
"Growing up, we all have our preferences," he said when questioned about these. "It's unlikely all people has to go around and announce what they used to be, but of course it's a really big football club."
The coach signed a fresh four-year contract in 2024 and was questioned about his alleged £5m release clause.
"Throughout coaching agreements, there are provisions," he responded. "I don't know what my specific terms are and, were I informed, I wouldn't disclose you anyway!
"I approach this job like I'll be Town's coach indefinitely. I understand that's not always going to be the case, but I'll always give maximum effort as long as I am here."
The Welsh Coach's Position
The former striker played for the Hoops on loan from Newcastle United in the mid-2000s, but the former Wales striker is inclined to complete the current global tournament qualification, a stance that would practically eliminate the 46-year-old from assuming the Glasgow position.
The Welsh squad are presently in third place in their qualifying group behind leaders Belgium and second-placed North Macedonia.
Victories over the minnows and their rivals in November would secure their position in the final qualifying round, but they are all but guaranteed of reaching that stage, thanks to a successful Nations League performance, even if they not end up Group J second place.
Considering his present position, Bellamy, whose contract concludes after the European Championship, would be unavailable until following the play-offs at the earliest.
Important Points
- Ipswich's manager refutes having talks with Celtic
- McKenna emphasizes dedication to his current club
- Craig Bellamy focused on World Cup qualification
- Each coaches linked with the Glasgow vacancy
- The Welsh coach not free until post World Cup qualifiers
