Zero McKenna Celtic FC Discussions as Craig Bellamy Commits to Wales
Kieran McKenna and Wales head coach have been connected with the Scottish champions manager position
Ipswich Town's their manager states he has had "zero discussions" with the Glasgow club about their coaching position, while Wales national team manager the former striker is dedicated to seeing out his team's World Cup campaign.
Each are being considered with the manager's job at the Premiership title holders following Brendan Rodgers' departure on Monday.
The Manager's Stance on The Scottish Club
McKenna referred to the Glasgow giants as "a really big soccer institution" but stressed he is "deeply involved" of a "long-term project" with Ipswich Town.
The 39-year-old took charge of Portman Road in 2021 and led them to the Premier League with back-to-back promotions, but they managed only a handful of victories last season as they were relegated back to the second division and they presently occupy 12th in England's second tier.
"I have not had any of those conversations," the London-born former Northern Ireland youth international said when asked about being on the candidate list.
"It's not something I have given any thought to, or where any part of my concentration is this week.
"I possess a special position here at a remarkable team. And we're at a crucial stage of the campaign. Everything external hasn't reached my radar."
Context and Agreement Aspects
Reports indicate that the manager would be open to speaking to Celtic given his childhood support.
"Growing up, we all have our preferences," he said when questioned about these. "I don't think everyone has to go around and declare what they were, but of course it's a massive football club."
The coach signed a fresh multi-year deal in 2024 and was questioned about his reported buyout clause.
"Throughout coaching agreements, there are things," he replied. "I don't know what my specific terms are and, were I informed, I wouldn't disclose you regardless!
"I approach this role like I'll be Town's coach forever. I understand that's not invariably going to be the situation, but I'll always do my best as while I remain in position."
Bellamy's Position
The former striker played for the Hoops on temporary transfer from Newcastle United in the mid-2000s, but the former Wales striker is inclined to finish the ongoing World Cup campaign, a position that would effectively rule out the 46-year-old from immediately taking the Glasgow position.
The Welsh squad are presently in third place in their World Cup group behind group toppers the Red Devils and second-placed North Macedonia.
Victories over Liechtenstein and their rivals in next month would book their position in the qualification play-offs, but they are all but assured of making those, due to a productive Nations League performance, should they not finish as Group J runners-up.
Considering his current position, Bellamy, whose contract expires after Euro 2028, would be unavailable until after the play-offs at the earliest.
Key Points
- Kieran McKenna refutes any conversations with the Scottish club
- McKenna emphasizes commitment to Ipswich Town
- Wales' manager concentrated on World Cup campaign
- Each coaches linked with Celtic position
- The Welsh coach not free until post tournament matches
