No McKenna Celtic Talks as Craig Bellamy Pledges to Welsh National Team
Ipswich's manager and Wales head coach have been connected with the Scottish champions manager position
Ipswich Town's Kieran McKenna says he has had "no conversations" 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 coaching position at the Scottish champions following the former manager's resignation on the start of the week.
McKenna's Stance on The Scottish Club
The Ipswich boss referred to the Glasgow giants as "a really big soccer institution" but emphasized he is "deeply involved" of a "extensive rebuilding" with the Championship side.
The mid-thirties took charge of Ipswich in recent years and guided the team to the English top flight with back-to-back promotions, but they managed only four games last campaign as they were demoted back to the Championship and they presently occupy 12th in the Championship.
"There have been any of those conversations," the London-born former 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 part of my focus is currently.
"I possess a special job here at a remarkable team. And we're at a crucial phase of the campaign. Anything outside of that hasn't touched my radar."
Context and Contractual Details
It has been suggested that McKenna would be willing to talk to Celtic given his boyhood allegiances.
"Growing up, we all have our preferences," he said when questioned about those. "It's unlikely all people has to publicly and announce what they were, but of course it's a massive football club."
McKenna agreed to a fresh multi-year deal in 2024 and was asked about his reported buyout clause.
"In every manager's contract, there are provisions," he replied. "I don't know what mine are and, if I did, I wouldn't disclose you regardless!
"I tackle this job like I will remain Ipswich manager forever. I know that's not invariably going to be the case, but I'll always do my best as long as I remain in position."
Bellamy's Situation
Bellamy represented Celtic on loan from Newcastle United in 2005, but the former Wales forward is inclined to complete the ongoing World Cup qualification, a position that would practically eliminate the 46-year-old from immediately taking the Celtic job.
The Welsh squad are presently third in their qualifying group behind group toppers Belgium and second-placed Macedonia.
Victories over Liechtenstein and North Macedonia in next month would secure their position in the final qualifying round, but they are all but guaranteed of reaching that stage, due to a productive Nations League campaign, even if they fail to finish as their group runners-up.
Given his current position, Bellamy, whose agreement expires after the European Championship, would be unavailable until following the qualifying matches at the earliest.
Important Highlights
- Kieran McKenna denies any talks with Celtic
- McKenna stresses commitment to Ipswich Town
- Wales' manager concentrated on World Cup campaign
- Each managers linked with the Glasgow position
- The Welsh coach not free until post tournament matches
