Zero McKenna Celtic FC Talks as Bellamy Pledges to Wales
Ipswich's manager and Craig Bellamy have been connected with the Scottish champions vacancy
The Championship club's Kieran McKenna says he has had "zero conversations" with Celtic about their coaching position, while Wales head coach the former striker is committed to seeing out his squad's international campaign.
Each have been linked with the manager's job at the Premiership title holders following Brendan Rodgers' resignation on the start of the week.
McKenna's Stance on Celtic
McKenna referred to Celtic as "an enormous football club" but emphasized he is "deeply involved" of a "long-term project" with Ipswich Town.
The 39-year-old assumed control of Ipswich in recent years and led them to the English top flight with consecutive elevations, but they managed only a handful of victories last season as they were demoted back to the second division and they presently occupy 12th in the Championship.
"I have not had any of those 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 given any thought to, or where any portion of my concentration is this week.
"I possess a special job here at a special club. And we're at a crucial phase of the season. Everything outside of that hasn't reached my radar."
Context and Agreement Details
It has been suggested that the manager would be willing to talk to Celtic given his boyhood allegiances.
"During youth, we all have our preferences," he said when questioned about those. "I don't think everyone has to go around and declare what they used to be, but of course it's a massive sports organization."
McKenna agreed to a fresh multi-year deal in last year and was asked 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 will remain Town's coach forever. I understand that's not invariably going to be the case, but I will consistently give maximum effort as long as I remain in position."
Bellamy's Position
Bellamy represented the Hoops on temporary transfer from the Magpies in the mid-2000s, but the former Welsh forward is minded to complete the current World Cup qualification, a stance that would effectively rule out the mid-forties from immediately taking the Glasgow position.
The Welsh squad are currently third in their World Cup group behind leaders the Red Devils and second-placed Macedonia.
Wins over the minnows and North Macedonia in November would book their position in the final qualifying round, but they are virtually guaranteed of reaching that stage, thanks to a productive European competition performance, even if they not finish as their group second place.
Given his present position, the Wales manager, whose contract expires after Euro 2028, would not be available until after the play-offs at the minimum.
Key Highlights
- Kieran McKenna denies any talks with Celtic
- McKenna stresses dedication to his current club
- Wales' manager focused on international qualification
- Both coaches connected with the Glasgow position
- Bellamy unavailable until post tournament matches