Zero Kieran McKenna Celtic Discussions as Craig Bellamy Commits to Wales
Kieran McKenna and Wales head coach have been connected with the Scottish champions vacancy
Ipswich Town's their manager says he has had "no conversations" with Celtic about their coaching position, while Welsh head coach Craig Bellamy is committed to seeing out his squad's World Cup campaign.
Both have been linked with the manager's job at the Premiership title holders following Brendan Rodgers' departure on the start of the week.
The Manager's Stance on Celtic
The Ipswich boss described Celtic as "an enormous football club" but stressed he is "in the middle" of a "long-term project" with Ipswich Town.
The mid-thirties took charge of Portman Road in 2021 and guided the team to the English top flight with consecutive elevations, but they managed only a handful of victories last season as they were relegated back to the second division and they presently occupy twelfth place in the Championship.
"There have been such discussions," the London-born ex- Irish young player said when asked about being on the candidate list.
"It's not something I have considered seriously, or where any part of my focus is currently.
"I possess a unique position here at a remarkable team. And we're at a really important phase of the campaign. Anything outside of that hasn't touched my radar."
Background and Contractual Aspects
Reports indicate that the manager would be open to speaking to the Scottish side given his boyhood allegiances.
"During youth, we all have our preferences," he said when asked about these. "It's unlikely everyone has to publicly and announce what they were, but of course it's a massive football club."
McKenna agreed to a new four-year contract in 2024 and was questioned about his reported buyout clause.
"In every manager's contract, there are things," he replied. "I'm unaware what my specific terms are and, were I informed, I wouldn't disclose you regardless!
"I tackle this job like I will remain Ipswich manager forever. I know that's not invariably going to be the case, but I'll always do my best as long as I am here."
The Welsh Coach's Position
Bellamy played for Celtic on temporary transfer from Newcastle United in 2005, but the ex- Welsh striker is inclined to complete the ongoing World Cup qualification, a position that would effectively rule out 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.
Victories over the minnows and North Macedonia in November would secure their position in the final qualifying round, but they are all but assured of reaching that stage, thanks to a productive Nations League campaign, even if they not finish as their group second place.
Considering his current stance, Bellamy, whose agreement concludes after the European Championship, would not be available until after the play-offs at the minimum.
Important Highlights
- Kieran McKenna denies having conversations with the Scottish club
- McKenna stresses dedication to his current club
- Wales' manager concentrated on international campaign
- Both coaches linked with the Glasgow vacancy
- The Welsh coach not free until after World Cup qualifiers
