Zero McKenna Celtic FC Discussions as Craig Bellamy Pledges to Wales
Kieran McKenna and Wales head coach have been connected with the Celtic vacancy
Ipswich Town's their manager declares he has had "no discussions" with the Glasgow club about their managerial vacancy, while Welsh head coach the former striker is dedicated to seeing out his squad's World Cup campaign.
Both have been linked with the manager's job at the Scottish champions following Brendan Rodgers' departure on the start of the week.
The Manager's Position on The Scottish Club
The Ipswich boss described the Glasgow giants as "an enormous football club" but emphasized he is "in the middle" of a "extensive rebuilding" with the Championship side.
The 39-year-old assumed control of Portman Road in recent years and guided the team to the Premier League with back-to-back promotions, but they managed only four games last season as they were demoted back to the second division and they currently sit twelfth place in England's second tier.
"There have been such discussions," the London-born former Irish youth international said when asked about being on the candidate list.
"This isn't a matter I have given any thought to, or where any portion of my focus is this week.
"I have a special job here at a remarkable team. And we're at a crucial stage of the campaign. Anything outside of that hasn't reached my radar."
Context and Contractual Details
It has been suggested that McKenna would be willing to talk to Celtic given his boyhood allegiances.
"Growing up, we all have our affinities," he said when questioned about those. "It's unlikely everyone has to go around and declare what they were, but of course it's a massive football club."
The coach signed a fresh multi-year deal in 2024 and was asked about his reported buyout clause.
"In every manager's contract, there are provisions," he responded. "I'm unaware what mine are and, were I informed, I wouldn't tell you regardless!
"I approach this role like I will remain Town's coach indefinitely. I understand that's not always going to be the situation, but I will consistently give maximum effort as while I remain in position."
Bellamy's Position
The former striker played for the Hoops on loan from the Magpies in 2005, but the former Welsh forward is minded to complete the current global tournament qualification, a stance that would effectively rule out the mid-forties from assuming the Glasgow position.
Wales are currently in third place in their qualifying group behind leaders the Red Devils and runners-up Macedonia.
Wins over Liechtenstein and North Macedonia in November would secure their place in the final qualifying round, but they are virtually assured of reaching that stage, thanks to a successful European competition campaign, even if they fail to finish as Group J second place.
Given his present position, Bellamy, whose agreement expires after Euro 2028, would not be available until after the play-offs at the minimum.
Key Points
- Kieran McKenna denies having talks with the Scottish club
- The coach stresses commitment to his current club
- Craig Bellamy concentrated on international qualification
- Each coaches linked with the Glasgow position
- The Welsh coach not free until post World Cup matches
