No Kieran McKenna Celtic FC Discussions as Craig Bellamy Pledges to Welsh National Team
Ipswich's manager and Craig Bellamy have been linked with the Celtic vacancy
The Championship club's Kieran McKenna declares he has had "no discussions" with the Glasgow club about their managerial vacancy, while Welsh national team manager the former striker is dedicated to completing his squad's international campaign.
Each have been linked with the manager's job at the Scottish champions following the former manager's departure on Monday.
McKenna's Position on Celtic
The Ipswich boss referred to the Glasgow giants as "a really big football club" but stressed he is "deeply involved" of a "long-term project" with the Championship side.
The 39-year-old took charge of Portman Road in recent years and guided the team to the Premier League with consecutive elevations, but they won just a handful of victories 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 any of those conversations," the London-born former Northern Ireland young player said when questioned about being on the candidate list.
"This isn't a matter I have considered seriously, or where any part of my focus is this week.
"I possess a unique position here at a remarkable team. And we're at a crucial stage of the campaign. Anything external hasn't touched my radar."
Context and Contractual Aspects
Reports indicate that the manager would be willing to talk to the Scottish side given his boyhood allegiances.
"Growing up, we all have our affinities," he said when asked about these. "It's unlikely all people has to go around and announce what they were, but of course it's a really big sports organization."
The coach signed a fresh four-year contract in 2024 and was questioned about his reported £5m release clause.
"Throughout coaching agreements, there are things," he responded. "I don't know what my specific terms are and, were I informed, I wouldn't disclose you anyway!
"I approach this role like I'll be Town's coach indefinitely. I know that's not invariably going to be the situation, but I'll always do my best as long as I remain in position."
The Welsh Coach's Position
Bellamy played for Celtic on temporary transfer from Newcastle United in 2005, but the former Wales striker is inclined to finish the ongoing global tournament campaign, a stance that would practically eliminate the 46-year-old from assuming the Celtic job.
The Welsh squad are currently third in their qualifying group behind group toppers the Red Devils and second-placed North Macedonia.
Wins over Liechtenstein and their rivals in November would secure their place in the final qualifying round, but they are all but guaranteed of reaching that stage, due to a successful Nations League campaign, should they fail to end up Group J runners-up.
Considering his present position, the Wales manager, whose agreement concludes after the European Championship, would not be available until after the play-offs at the earliest.
Important Points
- Ipswich's manager denies having talks with Celtic
- The coach emphasizes commitment to Ipswich Town
- Craig Bellamy concentrated on international campaign
- Each managers linked with the Glasgow vacancy
- Bellamy not free until after World Cup matches