Zero McKenna Celtic Talks as Bellamy Commits to Wales
Kieran McKenna and Wales head coach have been linked with the Scottish champions manager position
The Championship club's Kieran McKenna says he has had "no discussions" with Celtic about their coaching position, while Wales head coach 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 Scottish champions following Brendan Rodgers' resignation on Monday.
The Manager's Stance on Celtic
McKenna referred to the Glasgow giants as "a really big football club" but emphasized he is "in the middle" of a "long-term project" with Ipswich Town.
The mid-thirties assumed control of Portman Road in 2021 and guided the team to the Premier League with back-to-back promotions, but they won just four games last season as they were relegated back to the second division and they presently occupy 12th in the Championship.
"There have been such conversations," the English capital native former Irish youth international said when asked about being on Celtic's shortlist.
"This isn't a matter I have considered seriously, or where any part of my focus is currently.
"I possess a special position here at a special team. And we're at a crucial phase of the campaign. Everything external hasn't touched my awareness."
Context and Agreement Aspects
Reports indicate that McKenna would be open to speaking to the Scottish side given his childhood support.
"Growing up, we all have our affinities," he said when questioned about those. "It's unlikely everyone has to publicly and announce what they used to be, but of course it's a really big football club."
The coach agreed to a fresh four-year contract in last year and was questioned about his reported buyout clause.
"In every manager's contract, there are provisions," he replied. "I'm unaware what my specific terms are and, if I did, I wouldn't disclose 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 give maximum effort as while I remain in position."
Bellamy's Situation
Bellamy played for Celtic on loan from the Magpies in the mid-2000s, but the ex- Wales forward is inclined to complete the current World Cup qualification, a position that would effectively rule out the mid-forties from immediately taking the Glasgow position.
The Welsh squad are presently third in their World Cup group behind group toppers Belgium and runners-up Macedonia.
Victories over the minnows and their rivals in next month would secure their position in the final qualifying round, but they are virtually assured of reaching that stage, due to a successful Nations League campaign, should they not finish as Group J second place.
Considering his current stance, the Wales manager, whose contract expires after the European Championship, would not be available until after the qualifying matches at the earliest.
Key Points
- Ipswich's manager denies having conversations with Celtic
- The coach emphasizes dedication to Ipswich Town
- Craig Bellamy concentrated on World Cup qualification
- Each coaches connected with Celtic vacancy
- The Welsh coach unavailable until after tournament matches