No McKenna Celtic Discussions as Craig Bellamy Pledges to Welsh National Team
Ipswich's manager and Craig Bellamy have been linked with the Scottish champions manager position
The Championship club's Kieran McKenna says he has had "zero conversations" with the Glasgow club about their coaching position, while Welsh national team manager Craig Bellamy is committed to completing his team's international campaign.
Each are being considered with the coaching position at the Scottish champions following Brendan Rodgers' departure on Monday.
The Manager's Stance on Celtic
McKenna referred to Celtic as "an enormous soccer institution" but emphasized he is "in the middle" of a "long-term project" with Ipswich Town.
The mid-thirties 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 season as they were demoted back to the second division and they presently occupy 12th in England's second tier.
"There have been such discussions," the English capital native ex- Northern Ireland young player said when asked about being on Celtic's shortlist.
"It's not something I have considered seriously, or where any part of my concentration is currently.
"I have a special job here at a remarkable team. And we're at a really important phase of the campaign. Anything external hasn't touched my radar."
Background and Contractual Details
Reports indicate that McKenna 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 these. "It's unlikely all people has to publicly and declare what they were, but of course it's a really big football club."
The coach signed a fresh multi-year deal in last year and was questioned about his reported buyout clause.
"In every manager's contract, there are provisions," he responded. "I'm unaware what my specific terms are and, if I did, I wouldn't tell you regardless!
"I tackle this job like I will remain Ipswich manager forever. I know that's not always going to be the case, but I'll always give maximum effort as while I am here."
The Welsh Coach's Situation
Bellamy played for the Hoops on temporary transfer from Newcastle United in 2005, but the former Welsh striker is inclined to complete the current World Cup qualification, a position that would effectively rule out the 46-year-old from assuming the Celtic job.
Wales are presently in third place in their qualifying group behind group toppers the Red Devils and runners-up North Macedonia.
Wins over the minnows and their rivals in November would book their place in the final qualifying round, but they are all but assured of making those, due to a successful European competition performance, should they fail to end up Group J second place.
Considering his present position, Bellamy, whose agreement concludes after the European Championship, would not be available until after the play-offs at the minimum.
Important Highlights
- Ipswich's manager denies having talks with Celtic
- The coach emphasizes dedication to his current club
- Wales' manager concentrated on international qualification
- Each coaches connected with the Glasgow position
- The Welsh coach not free until post tournament qualifiers