Zero McKenna Celtic Talks as Bellamy Commits to Wales
Ipswich's manager and Wales head coach have been linked with the Scottish champions manager position
The Championship club's Kieran McKenna declares he has had "no discussions" with Celtic about their coaching position, while Welsh head coach the former striker is committed to seeing out his squad's World Cup campaign.
Each are being considered with the coaching position at the Premiership title holders following Brendan Rodgers' resignation on Monday.
The Manager's Position on The Scottish Club
McKenna described the Glasgow giants as "a really big soccer institution" but stressed he is "in the middle" of a "long-term project" with Ipswich Town.
The 39-year-old assumed control 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 season as they were demoted back to the Championship and they presently occupy twelfth place in England's second tier.
"I have not had any of those conversations," the London-born former Irish youth international said when asked about being on the candidate list.
"This isn't a matter I have considered seriously, or where any part of my focus is currently.
"I possess a unique position here at a remarkable team. And we're at a really important phase of the season. Everything outside of that hasn't reached my radar."
Background and Agreement Details
Reports indicate that McKenna would be open to speaking to the Scottish side given his boyhood allegiances.
"Growing up, we all have our preferences," he said when asked about these. "I don't think all people has to publicly and declare what they were, but of course it's a really big sports organization."
McKenna agreed to a fresh multi-year deal in last year and was asked about his alleged buyout clause.
"Throughout coaching agreements, there are things," he responded. "I don't know what mine are and, were I informed, I wouldn't disclose you regardless!
"I approach this role like I will remain Town's coach forever. I know that's not always going to be the case, but I'll always give maximum effort as while I remain in position."
Bellamy's Situation
Bellamy represented Celtic on loan from Newcastle United in the mid-2000s, but the former Welsh forward is minded to finish the current World Cup campaign, a stance that would effectively rule out the mid-forties from assuming the Glasgow position.
The Welsh squad are currently third in their World Cup group behind leaders the Red Devils and second-placed North Macedonia.
Victories over Liechtenstein and North Macedonia in November would book their position in the final qualifying round, but they are all but guaranteed of reaching that stage, thanks to a productive European competition campaign, should they not end up their group runners-up.
Considering his present stance, Bellamy, whose contract concludes after the European Championship, would not be available until after the play-offs at the minimum.
Key Points
- Ipswich's manager refutes any talks with Celtic
- McKenna emphasizes dedication to Ipswich Town
- Craig Bellamy concentrated on international campaign
- Both managers linked with the Glasgow position
- The Welsh coach unavailable until post World Cup matches