Zero McKenna Celtic FC Talks as Bellamy Pledges to Wales
Ipswich's manager and Craig Bellamy have been linked with the Celtic manager position
Ipswich Town's their manager says he has had "no discussions" with Celtic about their coaching position, while Welsh national team manager Craig Bellamy is dedicated to seeing out his squad's World Cup campaign.
Both are being considered with the manager's job at the Scottish champions following Brendan Rodgers' departure on Monday.
McKenna's Position on The Scottish Club
The Ipswich boss referred to the Glasgow giants as "a really big football club" but emphasized he is "deeply involved" of a "long-term project" with the Championship side.
The mid-thirties assumed control of Ipswich in recent years and led them to the Premier League with back-to-back promotions, but they managed only four games last campaign as they were demoted back to the Championship and they currently sit twelfth place in the Championship.
"I have not had such discussions," the English capital native former Northern Ireland young player said when questioned about being on the candidate list.
"It's not something I have given any thought to, or where any portion of my concentration is this week.
"I possess a unique position here at a special club. And we're at a crucial stage of the season. Anything outside of that hasn't touched my awareness."
Context and Agreement Aspects
Reports indicate that the manager would be willing to talk to Celtic given his boyhood allegiances.
"Growing up, we all have our affinities," he said when questioned about those. "I don't think everyone has to publicly and declare what they were, but naturally it's a massive sports organization."
The coach signed a new multi-year deal in last year and was questioned about his reported £5m release clause.
"Throughout coaching agreements, there are provisions," he responded. "I don't know what mine are and, were I informed, I wouldn't tell you anyway!
"I approach this job like I'll be Ipswich manager indefinitely. I know that's not always going to be the case, but I will consistently give maximum effort as long as I remain in position."
The Welsh Coach's Position
Bellamy represented Celtic on temporary transfer from the Magpies in 2005, but the ex- Wales striker is minded to finish the current global tournament campaign, a position that would practically eliminate the 46-year-old from assuming the Celtic job.
Wales are presently in third place in their World Cup group behind group toppers Belgium and runners-up North Macedonia.
Wins over the minnows and North Macedonia in next month would book their position in the final qualifying round, but they are all but assured of reaching that stage, thanks to a successful Nations League campaign, should they fail to finish as Group J runners-up.
Given his present stance, the Wales manager, whose agreement concludes after Euro 2028, would not be available until after the qualifying matches at the minimum.
Key Highlights
- Kieran McKenna refutes any talks with the Scottish club
- McKenna emphasizes dedication to his current club
- Wales' manager focused on World Cup qualification
- Each coaches connected with Celtic position
- Bellamy unavailable until post World Cup qualifiers
