Zero McKenna Celtic Discussions as Bellamy Pledges to Wales
Ipswich's manager and Wales head coach have been connected with the Celtic manager position
Ipswich Town's Kieran McKenna states he has had "zero discussions" with Celtic about their managerial vacancy, while Wales head coach the former striker is dedicated to seeing out his team's international campaign.
Each are being considered with the coaching position at the Premiership title holders following the former manager's resignation on Monday.
The Manager's Stance on The Scottish Club
The Ipswich boss referred to Celtic as "a really big football club" but emphasized he is "deeply involved" of a "extensive rebuilding" with Ipswich Town.
The 39-year-old took charge of Portman Road in 2021 and guided the team to the English top flight with consecutive elevations, but they managed only four games last season as they were relegated back to the second division and they currently sit 12th in the Championship.
"I have not had such conversations," the London-born former Northern Ireland young player said when questioned about being on Celtic's shortlist.
"It's not something I have considered seriously, or where any portion of my focus is this week.
"I have a unique job here at a special team. And we're at a crucial phase of the campaign. Everything external hasn't touched my radar."
Background and Agreement Aspects
It has been suggested that McKenna would be open to speaking to the Scottish side given his boyhood allegiances.
"During youth, we all have our preferences," he said when questioned about these. "I don't think everyone has to publicly and declare what they used to be, but naturally it's a really big football club."
The coach signed a fresh multi-year deal in 2024 and was questioned about his alleged ÂŁ5m release clause.
"In every manager's contract, there are provisions," he replied. "I don't know what my specific terms are and, were I informed, I wouldn't tell you anyway!
"I tackle this role like I will remain Town's coach indefinitely. I know that's not always going to be the case, but I'll always do my best as long as I remain in position."
The Welsh Coach's Position
The former striker represented the Hoops on loan from Newcastle United in 2005, but the ex- Welsh striker is inclined to complete the current World Cup campaign, a stance that would effectively rule out the mid-forties from immediately taking the Glasgow position.
The Welsh squad are currently third in their World Cup group behind leaders the Red Devils and runners-up North Macedonia.
Victories over Liechtenstein and their rivals in November would secure their place in the qualification play-offs, but they are all but guaranteed of making those, due to a productive European competition campaign, should they fail to end up their group second place.
Considering his current position, Bellamy, whose agreement expires after the European Championship, would not be available until after the qualifying matches at the earliest.
Key Highlights
- Ipswich's manager refutes any talks with the Scottish club
- The coach stresses commitment to his current club
- Wales' manager focused on international campaign
- Both coaches linked with the Glasgow vacancy
- Bellamy unavailable until after World Cup qualifiers