Zero Kieran McKenna Celtic FC Talks as Bellamy Pledges to Wales
Ipswich's manager and Craig Bellamy have been connected with the Celtic vacancy
Ipswich Town's their manager declares he has had "zero conversations" with Celtic about their coaching position, while Welsh national team manager the former striker is committed to seeing out his team's international campaign.
Each have been linked with the manager's job at the Premiership title holders following the former manager's resignation on Monday.
McKenna's Stance on The Scottish Club
McKenna described Celtic as "a really big soccer institution" but emphasized he is "deeply involved" of a "extensive rebuilding" with Ipswich Town.
The mid-thirties assumed control of Portman Road in 2021 and guided the team to the Premier League with consecutive elevations, but they won just a handful of victories last season as they were relegated back to the Championship and they currently sit 12th in the Championship.
"I have not had any of those discussions," the London-born former Northern Ireland youth international said when questioned about being on Celtic's shortlist.
"It's not something I have considered seriously, or where any part of my focus is this week.
"I have a unique job here at a special club. And we're at a really important stage of the campaign. Anything outside of that hasn't touched my radar."
Context and Agreement Details
Reports indicate that McKenna would be open to speaking to Celtic given his boyhood allegiances.
"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 of course it's a massive sports organization."
McKenna signed a new multi-year deal in 2024 and was asked about his reported £5m release clause.
"In every manager's contract, there are things," he replied. "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 will remain Town's coach forever. I understand that's not always going to be the case, but I will consistently give maximum effort as while I am here."
The Welsh Coach's Position
Bellamy represented Celtic on temporary transfer from the Magpies in 2005, but the ex- Welsh striker is inclined to complete 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 World Cup group behind group toppers Belgium and runners-up North Macedonia.
Wins over the minnows and their rivals in next month would secure their place in the final qualifying round, but they are virtually assured of making those, thanks to a successful European competition performance, should they not end up their group runners-up.
Given his present stance, the Wales manager, whose agreement expires after the European Championship, would be unavailable until after the play-offs at the earliest.
Important Highlights
- Kieran McKenna denies having talks with the Scottish club
- The coach emphasizes commitment to Ipswich Town
- Craig Bellamy focused on international qualification
- Each managers connected with the Glasgow position
- The Welsh coach not free until post tournament matches
