No McKenna Celtic FC Discussions as Craig Bellamy Pledges to Welsh National Team
Ipswich's manager and Craig Bellamy have been connected with the Celtic vacancy
The Championship club's their manager states he has had "no conversations" with the Glasgow club about their coaching position, while Wales national team manager the former striker is dedicated to seeing out his squad's international campaign.
Each are being considered with the manager's job at the Scottish champions following Brendan Rodgers' resignation on Monday.
McKenna's Stance on The Scottish Club
McKenna referred to Celtic as "a really big soccer institution" but stressed he is "in the middle" of a "long-term project" with Ipswich Town.
The mid-thirties assumed control of Ipswich in 2021 and guided the team to the English top flight with consecutive elevations, but they won just a handful of victories last campaign as they were demoted back to the second division and they presently occupy twelfth place in England's second tier.
"I have not had such conversations," the English capital native ex- Northern Ireland youth international said when asked about being on Celtic's shortlist.
"This isn't a matter I have given any thought to, or where any portion of my concentration is currently.
"I possess a special job here at a special club. And we're at a really important stage of the campaign. Anything outside of that hasn't reached my awareness."
Context and Contractual Aspects
Reports indicate that McKenna would be open to speaking to Celtic given his boyhood allegiances.
"Growing up, we all have our preferences," he said when asked about those. "It's unlikely everyone has to publicly and announce what they used to be, but of course it's a massive football club."
The coach signed a new four-year contract in 2024 and was questioned about his alleged buyout clause.
"Throughout coaching agreements, there are provisions," he responded. "I don't know what mine are and, if I did, I wouldn't disclose you regardless!
"I tackle this role like I will remain Town's coach indefinitely. I know that's not always going to be the case, but I'll always do my best as long as I remain in position."
Bellamy's Position
The former striker represented Celtic on loan from Newcastle United in the mid-2000s, but the ex- Welsh forward is minded to finish the current World Cup campaign, a stance that would effectively rule out the 46-year-old from assuming the Glasgow position.
Wales are currently third in their qualifying group behind leaders Belgium and second-placed North Macedonia.
Victories over Liechtenstein and North Macedonia in next month would secure their position in the final qualifying round, but they are all but guaranteed of making those, thanks to a productive Nations League performance, even if they not end up Group J second place.
Given his present position, Bellamy, whose contract expires after the European Championship, would not be available until after the qualifying matches at the minimum.
Important Highlights
- Kieran McKenna denies any conversations with the Scottish club
- The coach stresses commitment to Ipswich Town
- Craig Bellamy focused on international qualification
- Each managers linked with the Glasgow position
- Bellamy unavailable until post World Cup matches
