No Kieran McKenna Celtic Discussions as Craig Bellamy Commits to Wales
Kieran McKenna and Craig Bellamy have been connected with the Scottish champions vacancy
The Championship club's Kieran McKenna declares he has had "zero discussions" with the Glasgow club about their coaching position, while Welsh national team manager the former striker is committed to completing his squad's international campaign.
Each are being considered with the manager's job at the Premiership title holders following the former manager's departure on the start of the week.
The Manager's Stance on Celtic
The Ipswich boss referred to the Glasgow giants 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 2021 and led them to the Premier League with back-to-back promotions, but they won just four games last campaign as they were relegated back to the second division and they currently sit 12th in England's second tier.
"I have not had any of those conversations," the English capital native ex- Irish youth international said when questioned about being on Celtic's shortlist.
"It's not something I have considered seriously, or where any part of my concentration is currently.
"I have a unique job here at a remarkable team. And we're at a crucial phase of the campaign. Everything external hasn't touched my awareness."
Background and Agreement Details
Reports indicate that McKenna would be open to speaking to Celtic given his boyhood allegiances.
"During youth, we all have our preferences," he said when questioned about these. "I don't think everyone has to publicly and announce what they used to be, but naturally it's a really big sports organization."
McKenna signed a new multi-year deal in last year and was questioned about his alleged buyout clause.
"Throughout coaching agreements, there are provisions," he responded. "I don't know what my specific terms are and, if I did, I wouldn't disclose you regardless!
"I tackle this job like I'll be Ipswich manager forever. I understand 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
The former striker represented Celtic on loan from the Magpies in 2005, but the ex- Wales forward is inclined to finish the current World Cup qualification, a stance that would practically eliminate the mid-forties from assuming the Glasgow position.
Wales are presently in third place in their qualifying group behind group toppers Belgium and runners-up Macedonia.
Wins over Liechtenstein and their rivals in next month would secure their position in the final qualifying round, but they are all but assured of reaching that stage, due to a successful European competition performance, should they not end up Group J runners-up.
Considering his present position, Bellamy, whose agreement concludes after Euro 2028, would be unavailable until after the play-offs at the minimum.
Key Highlights
- Kieran McKenna denies having talks with the Scottish club
- The coach stresses dedication to his current club
- Wales' manager focused on international campaign
- Each coaches linked with Celtic position
- Bellamy not free until after World Cup matches