No Kieran McKenna Celtic FC Discussions as Bellamy Commits to Wales
Kieran McKenna and Craig Bellamy have been connected with the Celtic vacancy
The Championship club's Kieran McKenna states he has had "no conversations" with the Glasgow club about their coaching position, while Wales national team manager the former striker is dedicated to seeing out his team's international campaign.
Each are being considered with the manager's job at the Premiership title holders following Brendan Rodgers' resignation on the start of the week.
McKenna's Stance on Celtic
The Ipswich boss referred to Celtic as "an enormous soccer institution" but stressed he is "deeply involved" of a "long-term project" with the Championship side.
The 39-year-old assumed control of Ipswich in recent years and led them to the English top flight with consecutive elevations, but they won just a handful of victories last campaign as they were relegated back to the second division and they presently occupy 12th in England's second tier.
"I have not had such discussions," the English capital native ex- Northern Ireland young player said when questioned about being on the candidate list.
"It's not something I have given any thought to, or where any part of my focus is this week.
"I possess a special job here at a remarkable team. And we're at a crucial phase of the campaign. Anything external hasn't touched my radar."
Context and Agreement Details
It has been suggested that the manager would be willing to talk to Celtic given his childhood support.
"During youth, we all have our affinities," he said when asked about those. "I don't think everyone has to go around and announce what they were, but of course it's a really big sports organization."
The coach agreed to a new multi-year deal in 2024 and was questioned about his alleged £5m release clause.
"Throughout coaching agreements, there are provisions," he replied. "I'm unaware what my specific terms are and, if I did, I wouldn't disclose you regardless!
"I tackle this job like I'll be Ipswich manager indefinitely. I understand that's not always going to be the case, but I'll always give maximum effort as long as I remain in position."
Bellamy's Situation
The former striker played for Celtic on temporary transfer from the Magpies in 2005, but the former Wales forward is inclined to complete the ongoing World Cup campaign, a stance that would practically eliminate the mid-forties from assuming the Glasgow position.
Wales are presently third in their qualifying group behind leaders Belgium and second-placed North Macedonia.
Victories over Liechtenstein and their rivals in November would book their position in the final qualifying round, but they are virtually guaranteed of reaching that stage, thanks to a productive Nations League performance, should they fail to finish as Group J second place.
Considering his current stance, the Wales manager, whose contract concludes after Euro 2028, would be unavailable until following the play-offs at the minimum.
Key Points
- Ipswich's manager denies any talks with Celtic
- McKenna stresses commitment to Ipswich Town
- Craig Bellamy concentrated on World Cup qualification
- Both coaches connected with Celtic position
- The Welsh coach unavailable until after tournament qualifiers