Zero McKenna Celtic Talks as Bellamy Pledges to Welsh National Team
Kieran McKenna and Craig Bellamy have been connected with the Celtic vacancy
The Championship club's their manager states he has had "no discussions" with the Glasgow club about their coaching position, while Wales national team manager the former striker is committed to completing his squad's World Cup campaign.
Each have been linked with the manager's job at the Premiership title holders following the former manager's departure on Monday.
McKenna's Position on The Scottish Club
The Ipswich boss described Celtic as "a really big soccer institution" but emphasized he is "in the middle" of a "extensive rebuilding" with Ipswich Town.
The mid-thirties took charge of Portman Road in 2021 and led them to the Premier League with consecutive elevations, but they managed only a handful of victories last season as they were demoted back to the Championship and they presently occupy 12th in England's second tier.
"There have been any of those discussions," the London-born ex- Irish young player said when questioned about being on Celtic's shortlist.
"It's not something I have considered seriously, or where any portion of my focus is currently.
"I have a special job here at a special club. And we're at a crucial phase of the campaign. Everything external hasn't touched my radar."
Context and Contractual Aspects
It has been suggested that the manager would be open to speaking to the Scottish side given his boyhood allegiances.
"Growing up, we all have our preferences," he said when questioned about those. "It's unlikely everyone has to go around and announce what they used to be, but of course it's a massive football club."
McKenna signed a fresh multi-year deal in last year and was questioned about his reported buyout clause.
"Throughout coaching agreements, there are provisions," he responded. "I'm unaware what mine are and, were I informed, I wouldn't tell you regardless!
"I tackle this job like I will remain Ipswich manager forever. I understand that's not invariably going to be the case, but I will consistently give maximum effort as while I remain in position."
Bellamy's Position
Bellamy played for the Hoops on loan from Newcastle United in the mid-2000s, but the former Welsh striker is inclined to complete the ongoing global tournament campaign, a position that would practically eliminate the 46-year-old from immediately taking the Glasgow position.
Wales are currently third in their qualifying group behind leaders Belgium and second-placed North Macedonia.
Wins over the minnows and their rivals in November would book their position in the qualification play-offs, but they are virtually assured of reaching that stage, due to a productive European competition campaign, should they fail to finish as Group J runners-up.
Considering his current stance, the Wales manager, whose contract concludes after Euro 2028, would not be available until after the play-offs at the minimum.
Key Highlights
- Ipswich's manager refutes any talks with Celtic
- The coach stresses dedication to his current club
- Wales' manager concentrated on World Cup campaign
- Both managers connected with the Glasgow vacancy
- The Welsh coach not free until after World Cup matches