Zero McKenna Celtic Talks as Bellamy Commits to Wales
Kieran McKenna and Wales head coach have been linked with the Celtic manager position
Ipswich Town's their manager declares he has had "zero conversations" with the Glasgow club about their coaching position, while Wales national team manager the former striker is committed to seeing out his squad's international campaign.
Both are being considered with the manager's job at the Premiership title holders 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 "in the middle" of a "long-term project" with the Championship side.
The mid-thirties assumed control of Ipswich in 2021 and led them to the Premier League with consecutive elevations, but they won just four games last season as they were demoted back to the Championship and they presently occupy twelfth place in the Championship.
"I have not had such conversations," the English capital native ex- Northern Ireland youth international said when questioned about being on Celtic's shortlist.
"It's not something I have given any thought to, or where any portion of my concentration is this week.
"I have a special position here at a special team. And we're at a really important stage of the campaign. Everything outside of that hasn't touched my radar."
Background and Agreement Aspects
Reports indicate that McKenna would be open to speaking to the Scottish side given his boyhood allegiances.
"During youth, we all have our affinities," he said when asked about these. "I don't think all people has to go around and declare what they were, but naturally it's a really big sports organization."
The coach signed a fresh four-year contract in 2024 and was asked about his reported buyout clause.
"Throughout coaching agreements, there are provisions," he responded. "I don't know what my specific terms are and, were I informed, I wouldn't disclose you anyway!
"I tackle this role like I will remain Ipswich manager forever. I understand that's not always going to be the situation, but I'll always do my best as while I remain in position."
Bellamy's Position
The former striker represented Celtic on loan from the Magpies in 2005, but the ex- Welsh forward is minded to finish the current World Cup qualification, a stance that would practically eliminate the 46-year-old from immediately taking the Celtic job.
Wales are presently in third place in their qualifying group behind leaders Belgium and second-placed Macedonia.
Victories over Liechtenstein and their rivals in November would secure their position in the qualification play-offs, but they are all but assured of reaching that stage, due to a productive European competition campaign, even if they not end up 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 minimum.
Key Highlights
- Kieran McKenna refutes having talks with Celtic
- The coach stresses commitment to his current club
- Wales' manager concentrated on international qualification
- Each coaches linked with Celtic position
- The Welsh coach not free until post World Cup qualifiers
