No McKenna Celtic Talks as Bellamy Pledges to Wales
Ipswich's manager and Craig Bellamy have been linked with the Celtic vacancy
Ipswich Town's Kieran McKenna states he has had "no discussions" with the Glasgow club about their managerial vacancy, while Wales head coach the former striker is dedicated to seeing out his squad's World Cup campaign.
Each have been linked with the manager's job at the Premiership title holders following Brendan Rodgers' resignation on the start of the week.
McKenna's Stance on The Scottish Club
The Ipswich boss described Celtic as "a really big football club" but emphasized he is "in the middle" of a "extensive rebuilding" with Ipswich Town.
The mid-thirties took charge of Portman Road in 2021 and guided the team to the Premier League with back-to-back promotions, but they managed only a handful of victories last campaign as they were relegated back to the second division and they currently sit 12th in the Championship.
"There have been any of those conversations," the London-born ex- Irish young player said when questioned about being on the candidate list.
"It's not something I have considered seriously, or where any portion of my concentration is currently.
"I possess a special position here at a remarkable team. And we're at a crucial stage of the season. Everything external hasn't reached my radar."
Context and Contractual Aspects
Reports indicate that McKenna would be open to speaking to Celtic given his boyhood allegiances.
"Growing up, we all have our preferences," he said when questioned about those. "It's unlikely everyone has to go around and announce what they used to be, but of course it's a massive football club."
The coach signed a new multi-year deal in 2024 and was asked about his alleged buyout clause.
"Throughout coaching agreements, there are things," he replied. "I don't know what mine are and, were I informed, I wouldn't disclose you regardless!
"I tackle this role like I'll be Town's coach forever. 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 Position
Bellamy played for the Hoops on loan from the Magpies in 2005, but the ex- Welsh striker is inclined to complete the ongoing global tournament qualification, a stance that would effectively rule out the 46-year-old from assuming the Glasgow position.
Wales are presently in third place in their World Cup group behind leaders Belgium and runners-up Macedonia.
Wins over Liechtenstein and their rivals in November would secure their position in the qualification play-offs, but they are virtually guaranteed of making those, thanks to a productive European competition campaign, even if they not end up their group runners-up.
Given his current position, Bellamy, whose contract expires after Euro 2028, would not be available until after the play-offs at the earliest.
Key Highlights
- Ipswich's manager denies having conversations with Celtic
- The coach stresses commitment to his current club
- Craig Bellamy concentrated on World Cup qualification
- Each managers linked with the Glasgow position
- Bellamy unavailable until after World Cup matches