Zero McKenna Celtic Discussions as Bellamy Commits to Wales
Ipswich's manager and Craig Bellamy have been connected with the Scottish champions vacancy
Ipswich Town's their manager states he has had "zero conversations" with the Glasgow club about their coaching position, while Welsh national team manager the former striker is committed to completing his team's international campaign.
Each have been linked with the coaching position at the Premiership title holders following the former manager's resignation on Monday.
McKenna's Position on Celtic
McKenna referred to the Glasgow giants as "a really big football club" but emphasized he is "in the middle" of a "extensive rebuilding" with Ipswich Town.
The 39-year-old took charge of Portman Road in recent years and led them to the Premier League with consecutive elevations, but they won just a handful of victories last season as they were demoted back to the second division and they currently sit 12th in England's second tier.
"There have been any of those conversations," the English capital native former Irish youth international said when asked about being on the candidate list.
"This isn't a matter I have given any thought to, or where any portion of my concentration is currently.
"I possess a unique job here at a special team. And we're at a crucial phase of the season. Everything external hasn't reached my awareness."
Background and Contractual Aspects
It has been suggested that the manager would be willing to talk to the Scottish side given his boyhood allegiances.
"During youth, we all have our affinities," he said when questioned about those. "I don't think all people has to publicly and announce what they were, but naturally it's a massive sports organization."
McKenna signed a fresh four-year contract in 2024 and was asked about his reported £5m release clause.
"Throughout coaching agreements, there are provisions," he responded. "I'm unaware what mine are and, were I informed, I wouldn't disclose you regardless!
"I approach this role like I will remain Town's coach 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 Position
Bellamy represented Celtic on loan from the Magpies in 2005, but the former Wales striker is inclined to finish the ongoing World Cup qualification, a stance that would practically eliminate the mid-forties from immediately taking the Glasgow position.
Wales are presently in third place in their World Cup group behind leaders Belgium and second-placed North Macedonia.
Victories over Liechtenstein and their rivals in next month would book their place in the final qualifying round, but they are all but guaranteed of making those, thanks to a successful European competition performance, should they not finish as their group second place.
Considering his current stance, Bellamy, whose agreement concludes after the European Championship, would not be available until following the qualifying matches at the earliest.
Important Highlights
- Kieran McKenna refutes having talks with Celtic
- The coach stresses dedication to his current club
- Craig Bellamy concentrated on international qualification
- Each managers connected with Celtic position
- Bellamy unavailable until post tournament qualifiers
