Zero McKenna Celtic Discussions as Craig Bellamy Commits to Wales
Kieran McKenna and Wales head coach have been connected with the Celtic vacancy
The Championship club's their manager says he has had "zero discussions" with Celtic about their coaching position, while Welsh national team manager Craig Bellamy is dedicated to seeing out his squad's World Cup campaign.
Both are being considered with the coaching position at the Scottish champions following the former manager's departure on Monday.
The Manager's Stance on Celtic
The Ipswich boss referred to the Glasgow giants as "a really big football club" but emphasized he is "deeply involved" of a "extensive rebuilding" with the Championship side.
The 39-year-old took charge of Ipswich in 2021 and guided the team to the English top flight with consecutive elevations, but they managed only four games last season as they were relegated back to the Championship and they currently sit twelfth place in the Championship.
"There have been any of those discussions," 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 portion of my concentration is currently.
"I have a unique job here at a special team. And we're at a really important phase of the campaign. Everything external hasn't reached my radar."
Background and Agreement Details
It has been suggested that McKenna would be open to speaking to the Scottish side given his boyhood allegiances.
"Growing up, we all have our preferences," he said when asked about these. "It's unlikely everyone has to publicly and announce what they were, but naturally it's a massive football club."
McKenna signed a fresh multi-year deal in last year and was asked about his alleged buyout clause.
"In every manager's contract, there are provisions," he replied. "I don't know what mine are and, if I did, I wouldn't tell you regardless!
"I approach this role like I will remain Ipswich manager forever. I understand that's not always going to be the case, but I'll always give maximum effort as while I remain in position."
Bellamy's Situation
Bellamy played for Celtic on temporary transfer from Newcastle United in the mid-2000s, but the former Welsh forward is inclined to finish the ongoing global tournament campaign, a position that would practically eliminate the mid-forties from immediately taking the Glasgow position.
Wales are presently in third place in their World Cup group behind leaders the Red Devils and runners-up North Macedonia.
Victories over the minnows and North Macedonia in November would secure their place in the final qualifying round, but they are virtually assured of reaching that stage, due to a successful Nations League campaign, should they not end up their group runners-up.
Considering his present stance, Bellamy, whose contract expires after Euro 2028, would be unavailable until following the play-offs at the earliest.
Important Highlights
- Ipswich's manager denies any conversations with Celtic
- McKenna stresses commitment to his current club
- Craig Bellamy concentrated on World Cup campaign
- Both coaches linked with Celtic position
- Bellamy unavailable until after tournament qualifiers
