Zero McKenna Celtic FC Talks as Craig Bellamy Pledges to Wales
Kieran McKenna and Wales head coach have been linked with the Celtic vacancy
Ipswich Town's their manager says he has had "zero discussions" with Celtic about their coaching position, while Welsh national team manager the former striker is dedicated to seeing out his squad's international campaign.
Each are being considered with the coaching position at the Scottish champions following the former manager's departure on the start of the week.
McKenna's Position on Celtic
The Ipswich boss described Celtic as "a really big soccer institution" but emphasized he is "deeply involved" of a "long-term project" with the Championship side.
The 39-year-old took charge of Ipswich in recent years and guided the team to the English top flight with consecutive elevations, but they managed only four games last season as they were demoted back to the Championship and they currently sit twelfth place in England's second tier.
"I have not had any of those conversations," the London-born former Irish young player said when questioned about being on the candidate list.
"This isn't a matter I have given any thought to, or where any part of my focus is this week.
"I possess a special position here at a remarkable team. And we're at a really important phase of the campaign. Anything external hasn't touched my awareness."
Background and Agreement Details
Reports indicate that McKenna would be open to speaking to the Scottish side given his boyhood allegiances.
"During youth, we all have our affinities," he said when asked about these. "I don't think everyone has to publicly and announce what they used to be, but of course it's a massive football club."
The coach agreed to a new four-year contract in 2024 and was questioned about his alleged buyout clause.
"In every manager's contract, there are provisions," he responded. "I'm unaware what my specific terms are and, were I informed, I wouldn't tell you anyway!
"I tackle this job like I'll be Ipswich manager indefinitely. I understand that's not invariably going to be the situation, but I will consistently do my best as long as I remain in position."
Bellamy's Position
Bellamy played for Celtic on temporary transfer from the Magpies in the mid-2000s, but the former Wales striker is inclined to complete the current global tournament campaign, a position that would effectively rule out the mid-forties from immediately taking the Celtic job.
The Welsh squad are presently third in their World Cup group behind leaders Belgium and runners-up North Macedonia.
Victories over the minnows and their rivals in November would secure their place in the final qualifying round, but they are virtually assured of making those, thanks to a productive Nations League campaign, even if they fail to end up their group second place.
Considering his present stance, the Wales manager, whose agreement concludes after the European Championship, would be unavailable until after the qualifying matches at the minimum.
Key Highlights
- Ipswich's manager refutes having conversations with Celtic
- The coach emphasizes commitment to Ipswich Town
- Wales' manager focused on World Cup campaign
- Each coaches connected with the Glasgow vacancy
- The Welsh coach not free until after World Cup matches
