Zero Kieran McKenna Celtic Discussions as Bellamy Commits to Welsh National Team
Ipswich's manager and Craig Bellamy have been connected with the Celtic vacancy
The Championship club's Kieran McKenna states he has had "zero conversations" with the Glasgow club about their managerial vacancy, while Welsh head coach Craig Bellamy is committed to completing his team's World Cup campaign.
Each have been linked with the manager's job at the Premiership title holders following Brendan Rodgers' resignation on Monday.
The Manager's Stance on Celtic
The Ipswich boss referred to Celtic as "a really big football club" but emphasized he is "in the middle" of a "extensive rebuilding" with the Championship side.
The mid-thirties assumed control of Portman Road in recent years and guided the team to the English top flight with back-to-back promotions, but they won just a handful of victories last season as they were demoted back to the Championship and they currently sit 12th in the Championship.
"I have not had any of those conversations," the English capital native former Irish young player said when questioned about being on Celtic's shortlist.
"It's not something I have considered seriously, or where any portion of my focus is currently.
"I have a unique job here at a special club. And we're at a really important stage of the season. Anything outside of that hasn't touched my awareness."
Context and Agreement Details
It has been suggested that McKenna would be willing to talk to the Scottish side given his childhood support.
"Growing up, we all have our preferences," he said when questioned about those. "I don't think all people has to go around and announce what they were, but naturally it's a massive football club."
The coach agreed to a new multi-year deal in last year and was questioned about his alleged buyout clause.
"In every manager's contract, there are provisions," he replied. "I'm unaware what my specific terms are and, were I informed, I wouldn't tell you anyway!
"I tackle this job like I'll be Ipswich manager forever. I understand that's not invariably going to be the situation, but I'll always do my best as long as I am here."
Bellamy's Situation
The former striker represented the Hoops on loan from the Magpies in 2005, but the ex- Wales forward is minded to finish the current World Cup qualification, a stance that would practically eliminate the 46-year-old from immediately taking the Celtic job.
The Welsh squad are currently third in their World Cup 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 guaranteed of making those, thanks to a productive Nations League performance, even if they fail to finish as their group second place.
Considering his present stance, Bellamy, whose agreement expires after Euro 2028, would not be available until after the qualifying matches at the minimum.
Important Highlights
- Ipswich's manager denies any talks with the Scottish club
- The coach stresses dedication to his current club
- Craig Bellamy concentrated on international campaign
- Both coaches connected with the Glasgow position
- The Welsh coach unavailable until post World Cup matches