Zero McKenna Celtic Discussions as Bellamy Commits to Wales
Kieran McKenna and Craig Bellamy have been linked with the Scottish champions vacancy
The Championship club's Kieran McKenna says he has had "no conversations" with Celtic about their managerial vacancy, while Wales head coach Craig Bellamy is committed to completing his squad's World Cup campaign.
Each are being considered with the coaching position at the Scottish champions following the former manager's departure on Monday.
The Manager's Stance on The Scottish Club
The Ipswich boss described the Glasgow giants as "a really big soccer institution" but stressed he is "in the middle" of a "extensive rebuilding" with the Championship side.
The 39-year-old assumed control of Ipswich 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 demoted back to the Championship and they presently occupy twelfth place in England's second tier.
"There have been such conversations," the London-born ex- 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 part of my concentration is this week.
"I have a special job here at a special club. And we're at a crucial phase of the season. Anything outside of that hasn't reached my radar."
Background and Contractual Aspects
Reports indicate that the manager would be open to speaking to Celtic given his boyhood allegiances.
"During youth, we all have our affinities," he said when questioned about these. "I don't think everyone has to go around and declare what they used to be, but of course it's a really big sports organization."
The coach signed a new multi-year deal in last year and was questioned about his reported buyout clause.
"Throughout coaching agreements, there are provisions," he responded. "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 indefinitely. I know that's not invariably going to be the case, but I'll always give maximum effort as while I am here."
The Welsh Coach's Position
Bellamy played for Celtic on temporary transfer from the Magpies in 2005, but the former Welsh forward is inclined to complete the ongoing World Cup qualification, a position that would practically eliminate the mid-forties from immediately taking the Glasgow position.
The Welsh squad are presently in third place in their World Cup group behind group toppers the Red Devils and runners-up Macedonia.
Victories over Liechtenstein and their rivals in next month would secure their position in the qualification play-offs, but they are all but guaranteed of reaching that stage, due to a productive European competition performance, even if they not finish as their group second place.
Given his current position, the Wales manager, whose agreement expires after the European Championship, would not be available until after the qualifying matches at the earliest.
Key Points
- Ipswich's manager refutes having conversations with the Scottish club
- The coach stresses commitment to Ipswich Town
- Wales' manager concentrated on World Cup qualification
- Both managers connected with Celtic vacancy
- Bellamy not free until post World Cup qualifiers