Zero Kieran McKenna Celtic Talks as Bellamy Pledges to Wales
Ipswich's manager and Craig Bellamy have been linked with the Scottish champions vacancy
Ipswich Town's their manager states he has had "no conversations" with Celtic about their coaching position, while Welsh head coach the former striker is committed to seeing out his team's international campaign.
Both have been linked with the manager's job at the Scottish champions following the former manager's resignation on the start of the week.
McKenna's Stance on Celtic
McKenna referred to Celtic as "a really big soccer institution" but stressed he is "deeply involved" of a "extensive rebuilding" with the Championship side.
The 39-year-old assumed control of Portman Road in recent years and led them to the English top flight with consecutive elevations, but they won just four games last season as they were demoted back to the second division and they presently occupy 12th in England's second tier.
"There have been any of those discussions," the London-born ex- Northern Ireland young player 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 have a unique position here at a remarkable club. And we're at a crucial stage of the season. Everything external hasn't touched my radar."
Context and Contractual Details
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. "I don't think everyone has to go around and declare what they were, but naturally it's a massive sports organization."
The coach agreed to a new multi-year deal in 2024 and was questioned about his reported buyout clause.
"Throughout coaching agreements, there are provisions," he responded. "I don't know what my specific terms are and, were I informed, I wouldn't tell you regardless!
"I tackle this job like I will remain Ipswich manager forever. I know that's not always going to be the case, but I'll always do my best as while I remain in position."
The Welsh Coach's Situation
The former striker represented the Hoops on loan from Newcastle United in 2005, but the former Wales forward is inclined to finish the current global tournament qualification, a position that would practically eliminate the mid-forties from assuming the Glasgow position.
The Welsh squad are currently in third place in their qualifying group behind leaders Belgium and runners-up Macedonia.
Victories over the minnows and their rivals in November would secure their place in the final qualifying round, but they are all but guaranteed of making those, due to a successful European competition performance, should they fail to finish as Group J second place.
Given his current position, Bellamy, whose agreement concludes after the European Championship, would be unavailable until following the qualifying matches at the earliest.
Key Highlights
- Kieran McKenna refutes having talks with Celtic
- The coach stresses commitment to his current club
- Craig Bellamy concentrated on World Cup campaign
- Both managers connected with the Glasgow position
- Bellamy not free until post tournament qualifiers
