Zero McKenna Celtic FC Talks as Bellamy Pledges to Wales
Kieran McKenna and Wales head coach have been linked with the Scottish champions manager position
The Championship club's their manager says he has had "zero discussions" with Celtic about their managerial vacancy, while Welsh national team manager the former striker is dedicated to completing his team's World Cup campaign.
Each are being considered with the coaching position at the Premiership title holders following Brendan Rodgers' departure on Monday.
The Manager's Stance on Celtic
The Ipswich boss referred to the Glasgow giants as "an enormous football club" but stressed he is "in the middle" of a "extensive rebuilding" with the Championship side.
The 39-year-old assumed control of Ipswich in recent years and led them to the Premier League with consecutive elevations, but they managed only four games 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- Irish young player said when questioned about being on Celtic's shortlist.
"This isn't a matter I have given any thought to, or where any portion of my focus is this week.
"I have a special job here at a remarkable team. And we're at a really important stage of the season. Anything outside of that hasn't touched my radar."
Context and Contractual Details
Reports indicate that McKenna would be willing to talk to Celtic given his boyhood allegiances.
"Growing up, we all have our preferences," he said when asked about these. "I don't think all people has to go around and announce what they used to be, but naturally it's a massive sports organization."
The coach signed a new four-year contract in 2024 and was asked about his alleged £5m release clause.
"In every manager's contract, there are provisions," he responded. "I don't know what my specific terms are and, were I informed, I wouldn't disclose you anyway!
"I approach this job like I will remain Town's coach indefinitely. I understand that's not always going to be the case, but I will consistently do my best as while I remain in position."
The Welsh Coach's Position
The former striker played for the Hoops on loan from the Magpies in 2005, but the former Welsh striker is inclined to finish the current World Cup qualification, a position that would effectively rule out the 46-year-old from immediately taking the Celtic job.
The Welsh squad are presently third in their World Cup group behind group toppers Belgium and runners-up Macedonia.
Wins over the minnows and their rivals in next month would secure their place in the final qualifying round, but they are virtually guaranteed of making those, due to a successful European competition campaign, should they fail to finish as their group runners-up.
Given his current stance, Bellamy, whose contract concludes after the European Championship, would not be available until after the play-offs at the earliest.
Key Points
- Ipswich's manager denies any talks with Celtic
- The coach emphasizes commitment to Ipswich Town
- Craig Bellamy focused on World Cup campaign
- Each managers connected with the Glasgow vacancy
- The Welsh coach not free until after World Cup matches
