Zero McKenna Celtic FC Discussions as Bellamy Commits to Welsh National Team
Ipswich's manager and Wales head coach have been linked with the Celtic manager position
Ipswich Town's their manager says he has had "zero discussions" with Celtic about their coaching position, while Welsh national team manager Craig Bellamy is committed to seeing out his squad's international campaign.
Each are being considered with the manager's job at the Scottish champions following Brendan Rodgers' departure on Monday.
McKenna's Stance on The Scottish Club
McKenna described Celtic as "an enormous soccer institution" but stressed he is "deeply involved" of a "extensive rebuilding" with Ipswich Town.
The 39-year-old assumed control of Ipswich in 2021 and guided the team to the English top flight with consecutive elevations, but they managed only four games last campaign as they were demoted back to the second division and they presently occupy twelfth place in England's second tier.
"I have not had any of those discussions," the English capital native ex- Northern Ireland youth international said when questioned about being on the candidate list.
"It's not something I have considered seriously, or where any part of my concentration is currently.
"I possess a special position here at a special club. And we're at a crucial stage of the season. Everything external hasn't touched my radar."
Background and Contractual Aspects
Reports indicate that the manager would be willing to talk to Celtic given his boyhood allegiances.
"Growing up, we all have our affinities," he said when questioned about these. "I don't think everyone has to go around and declare what they were, but naturally it's a really big sports organization."
The coach signed a new four-year contract in last year and was asked about his alleged £5m release clause.
"Throughout coaching agreements, there are provisions," he responded. "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 Town's coach indefinitely. I understand that's not invariably going to be the case, but I'll always give maximum effort as while I remain in position."
Bellamy's Position
The former striker represented the Hoops on temporary transfer from Newcastle United in 2005, but the ex- Welsh striker is inclined to finish the current global tournament campaign, a stance that would effectively rule out the 46-year-old from immediately taking the Celtic job.
Wales are presently third in their World Cup group behind group toppers Belgium and second-placed Macedonia.
Wins over Liechtenstein and North Macedonia in next month would book their place in the qualification play-offs, but they are all but guaranteed of making those, due to a successful European competition campaign, should they fail to end up Group J second place.
Given his current stance, the Wales manager, whose agreement concludes after the European Championship, would be unavailable until after the play-offs at the earliest.
Key Points
- Kieran McKenna refutes any talks with the Scottish club
- McKenna emphasizes dedication to Ipswich Town
- Wales' manager focused on international campaign
- Each coaches connected with the Glasgow vacancy
- Bellamy unavailable until post tournament matches
