Zero McKenna Celtic FC Discussions as Bellamy Commits to Wales
Kieran McKenna and Wales head coach have been linked with the Celtic manager position
Ipswich Town's Kieran McKenna declares he has had "zero discussions" with Celtic about their managerial vacancy, while Welsh national team manager Craig Bellamy is dedicated to completing his squad's international campaign.
Each are being considered with the manager's job at the Premiership title holders following Brendan Rodgers' departure on the start of the week.
The Manager's Position on Celtic
The Ipswich boss described the Glasgow giants as "a really big football club" but emphasized he is "in the middle" of a "long-term project" with the Championship side.
The mid-thirties took charge of Ipswich in 2021 and guided the team to the English top flight with back-to-back promotions, but they managed only a handful of victories last campaign as they were demoted back to the second division and they presently occupy 12th in the Championship.
"I have not had such discussions," the English capital native ex- Irish youth international said when questioned about being on Celtic's shortlist.
"It's not something I have considered seriously, or where any portion of my concentration is currently.
"I possess a special job here at a special club. And we're at a really important stage of the season. Anything outside of that hasn't reached my radar."
Context and Agreement Details
Reports indicate that McKenna would be willing to talk to the Scottish side given his boyhood allegiances.
"During youth, we all have our preferences," he said when asked about these. "It's unlikely all people has to publicly and declare what they were, but of course it's a massive football club."
McKenna signed a fresh multi-year deal in 2024 and was questioned about his reported £5m release clause.
"Throughout coaching agreements, 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 role like I'll be Ipswich manager indefinitely. I understand that's not invariably going to be the situation, but I'll always do my best as long as I am here."
Bellamy's Position
The former striker played for Celtic on loan from the Magpies in 2005, but the ex- Wales forward is inclined to finish the ongoing global tournament campaign, a stance that would practically eliminate the mid-forties from assuming the Celtic job.
Wales are currently third in their qualifying group behind group toppers the Red Devils 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, due to a productive European competition campaign, even if they not finish as Group J second place.
Given his present stance, the Wales manager, whose agreement concludes after the European Championship, would be unavailable until following the qualifying matches at the earliest.
Important Highlights
- Ipswich's manager denies any conversations with Celtic
- McKenna emphasizes commitment to Ipswich Town
- Wales' manager concentrated on international qualification
- Each coaches connected with the Glasgow position
- Bellamy unavailable until post tournament qualifiers