No Kieran McKenna Celtic Discussions as Bellamy Pledges to Wales
Kieran McKenna and Craig Bellamy have been connected with the Celtic manager position
Ipswich Town's their manager states he has had "no conversations" with the Glasgow club about their coaching position, while Wales national team manager Craig Bellamy is dedicated to completing his team's World Cup campaign.
Each are being considered with the manager's job at the Scottish champions following Brendan Rodgers' departure on the start of the week.
McKenna's Position on The Scottish Club
The Ipswich boss referred to Celtic as "an enormous football club" but emphasized he is "deeply involved" of a "long-term project" with the Championship side.
The mid-thirties assumed control of Portman Road in recent years and led them to the Premier League with back-to-back promotions, but they managed only a handful of victories last campaign as they were relegated back to the Championship and they presently occupy 12th in the Championship.
"There have been any of those conversations," the London-born ex- Irish youth international said when asked about being on the candidate list.
"This isn't a matter I have considered seriously, or where any portion of my focus is this week.
"I have a unique job here at a special team. And we're at a crucial phase of the season. Anything external hasn't touched my radar."
Context and Contractual Details
Reports indicate that the manager would be open to speaking to the Scottish side given his boyhood allegiances.
"Growing up, we all have our preferences," he said when questioned about these. "It's unlikely everyone has to publicly and announce what they used to be, but naturally it's a really big football club."
McKenna agreed to a fresh multi-year deal in last year and was asked about his reported buyout clause.
"Throughout coaching agreements, there are things," he replied. "I'm unaware what mine are and, if I did, I wouldn't disclose you regardless!
"I tackle this role like I will remain Town's coach forever. I know that's not invariably going to be the situation, but I'll always do my best as while I remain in position."
The Welsh Coach's Position
Bellamy played for the Hoops on loan from the Magpies in 2005, but the former Wales forward is minded to complete the current global tournament campaign, a stance that would practically eliminate the mid-forties from assuming the Celtic job.
Wales are currently in third place in their World Cup group behind group toppers Belgium and runners-up North Macedonia.
Victories over the minnows and North Macedonia in November would book their place in the qualification play-offs, but they are virtually assured of making those, due to a productive Nations League performance, should they fail to end up their group runners-up.
Considering his current position, Bellamy, whose agreement expires after Euro 2028, would not be available until after the qualifying matches at the minimum.
Key Highlights
- Ipswich's manager refutes any conversations with the Scottish club
- McKenna emphasizes dedication to Ipswich Town
- Craig Bellamy focused on World Cup qualification
- Each coaches linked with the Glasgow position
- Bellamy not free until post World Cup qualifiers
