Zero McKenna Celtic Discussions as Craig Bellamy Commits to Wales
Kieran McKenna and Wales head coach have been connected with the Celtic manager position
Ipswich Town's Kieran McKenna declares he has had "no conversations" with the Glasgow club about their coaching position, while Wales national team manager Craig Bellamy is dedicated to seeing out his squad's international campaign.
Both are being considered with the coaching position at the Premiership title holders following Brendan Rodgers' resignation on Monday.
McKenna's Position on Celtic
The Ipswich boss referred to Celtic as "an enormous football club" but emphasized he is "deeply involved" of a "long-term project" with Ipswich Town.
The 39-year-old assumed control of Portman Road in 2021 and guided the team to the English top flight with consecutive elevations, but they won just four games last season as they were relegated back to the Championship and they currently sit 12th in the Championship.
"There have been any of those discussions," the English capital native former Irish young player said when questioned about being on Celtic's shortlist.
"It's not something I have given any thought to, or where any portion of my concentration is this week.
"I possess a special job here at a remarkable club. And we're at a crucial phase of the season. Everything outside of that hasn't reached my radar."
Context and Contractual Details
It has been suggested that McKenna would be willing to talk to the Scottish side given his childhood support.
"During youth, we all have our affinities," he said when questioned about those. "I don't think all people has to go around and announce what they used to be, but of course it's a massive sports organization."
McKenna signed a new four-year contract in 2024 and was questioned about his alleged buyout clause.
"Throughout coaching agreements, there are things," he replied. "I don't know what my specific terms are and, if I did, I wouldn't tell you anyway!
"I tackle this role like I'll be Ipswich manager indefinitely. I know that's not always going to be the situation, but I will consistently do my best as while I am here."
Bellamy's Situation
The former striker represented the Hoops on temporary transfer from Newcastle United in the mid-2000s, but the ex- Welsh forward is inclined to finish the ongoing global tournament qualification, a position that would practically eliminate the 46-year-old from immediately taking the Glasgow position.
The Welsh squad are currently third in their World Cup group behind group toppers Belgium and runners-up Macedonia.
Victories over Liechtenstein and their rivals in November would book their position in the final qualifying round, but they are virtually assured of reaching that stage, thanks to a successful European competition campaign, should they not finish as their group runners-up.
Considering his current stance, the Wales manager, whose agreement expires after the European Championship, would not be available until following the play-offs at the earliest.
Key Highlights
- Ipswich's manager refutes any conversations with Celtic
- The coach stresses dedication to Ipswich Town
- Wales' manager concentrated on World Cup campaign
- Each coaches connected with Celtic position
- The Welsh coach not free until after World Cup matches