No Kieran McKenna Celtic FC Discussions as Craig Bellamy Commits to Welsh National Team
Ipswich's manager and Wales head coach have been linked with the Scottish champions vacancy
Ipswich Town's their manager says he has had "no conversations" with the Glasgow club about their managerial vacancy, while Welsh national team manager Craig Bellamy is dedicated to completing his squad's World Cup campaign.
Both have been linked with the coaching position at the Scottish champions following Brendan Rodgers' resignation on Monday.
The Manager's Stance on Celtic
The Ipswich boss described Celtic as "a really big soccer institution" but emphasized he is "deeply involved" of a "long-term project" with the Championship side.
The mid-thirties took charge of Ipswich in recent years 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 demoted back to the second division and they presently occupy twelfth place in the Championship.
"There have been such discussions," the London-born former Northern Ireland young player said when questioned about being on Celtic's shortlist.
"It's not something I have given any thought to, or where any part of my focus is this week.
"I have a special position here at a special team. And we're at a crucial phase of the campaign. Anything external hasn't reached my radar."
Context and Contractual Details
Reports indicate that the manager would be open to speaking to Celtic given his childhood support.
"During youth, we all have our preferences," he said when asked about those. "It's unlikely all people has to go around and declare what they used to be, but of course it's a really big sports organization."
McKenna signed a fresh multi-year deal in 2024 and was asked about his alleged £5m release clause.
"In every manager's contract, there are provisions," he replied. "I'm unaware what my specific terms are and, if I did, I wouldn't disclose you anyway!
"I tackle this job like I will remain Ipswich manager forever. I know that's not always going to be the situation, but I will consistently give maximum effort as while I am here."
The Welsh Coach's Position
The former striker played for Celtic on temporary transfer from the Magpies in 2005, but the former Welsh forward is inclined to finish the current World Cup campaign, a position that would practically eliminate the mid-forties from assuming the Glasgow position.
Wales are currently in third place in their World Cup group behind leaders the Red Devils and runners-up Macedonia.
Victories over the minnows and their rivals in next month would secure their position in the qualification play-offs, but they are virtually assured of reaching that stage, thanks to a successful Nations League performance, should they not end up Group J runners-up.
Considering his current position, Bellamy, whose contract expires after Euro 2028, would not be available until following the play-offs at the minimum.
Key Points
- Kieran McKenna refutes any talks with Celtic
- McKenna stresses commitment to his current club
- Craig Bellamy concentrated on World Cup campaign
- Both coaches connected with Celtic vacancy
- Bellamy unavailable until after tournament matches
