Zero McKenna Celtic FC Talks as Craig Bellamy Commits to Wales
Ipswich's manager and Wales head coach have been linked with the Celtic vacancy
The Championship club's Kieran McKenna states he has had "zero conversations" with Celtic about their coaching position, while Wales head coach the former striker is committed to seeing out his team's international campaign.
Both are being considered with the coaching position at the Scottish champions following Brendan Rodgers' departure on Monday.
The Manager's Position on Celtic
The Ipswich boss referred to Celtic as "a really big soccer institution" but stressed he is "deeply involved" of a "long-term project" with Ipswich Town.
The mid-thirties took charge of Ipswich in 2021 and led them to the English top flight with back-to-back promotions, but they managed only four games last campaign as they were demoted back to the Championship and they presently occupy twelfth place in England's second tier.
"There have been any of those discussions," the London-born ex- Northern Ireland 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 special position here at a remarkable club. And we're at a really important phase of the campaign. Everything outside of that hasn't reached my radar."
Background and Contractual Details
It has been suggested that the manager would be open to speaking to Celtic given his childhood support.
"During youth, we all have our preferences," he said when asked about these. "I don't think everyone has to publicly and announce what they were, but naturally it's a massive sports organization."
McKenna signed a new multi-year deal in last year and was questioned about his alleged £5m release clause.
"In every manager's contract, there are provisions," he replied. "I don't know what my specific terms are and, if I did, I wouldn't disclose you regardless!
"I tackle this job like I will remain Ipswich manager forever. I understand that's not invariably going to be the situation, but I will consistently do my best as long as I remain in position."
The Welsh Coach's Position
Bellamy represented the Hoops on loan from the Magpies in the mid-2000s, but the ex- Welsh striker is minded to finish the current global tournament qualification, a position that would practically eliminate the 46-year-old from assuming the Celtic job.
The Welsh squad are presently third in their qualifying group behind group toppers the Red Devils and second-placed Macedonia.
Wins over the minnows and their rivals in November would secure their position in the qualification play-offs, but they are virtually guaranteed of reaching that stage, due to a successful Nations League performance, even if they fail to finish as their group runners-up.
Considering his current stance, the Wales manager, whose agreement concludes after Euro 2028, would not be available until following the qualifying matches at the minimum.
Key Points
- Kieran McKenna denies having talks with the Scottish club
- McKenna emphasizes commitment to his current club
- Wales' manager concentrated on international campaign
- Each managers linked with the Glasgow position
- Bellamy not free until after World Cup qualifiers
