Zero Kieran McKenna Celtic Talks as Craig Bellamy Commits to Wales
Ipswich's manager and Craig Bellamy have been linked with the Scottish champions vacancy
Ipswich Town's Kieran McKenna says he has had "no discussions" with the Glasgow club about their coaching position, while Welsh head coach Craig Bellamy is committed to seeing out his squad's international campaign.
Both have been linked with the manager's job at the Scottish champions following Brendan Rodgers' departure on the start of the week.
McKenna's Position on Celtic
McKenna described Celtic as "a really big football club" but emphasized he is "deeply involved" of a "extensive rebuilding" with Ipswich Town.
The mid-thirties took charge of Ipswich in recent years and guided the team to the English top flight with consecutive elevations, but they managed only a handful of victories last campaign as they were relegated back to the Championship and they presently occupy 12th in the Championship.
"I have not had such conversations," the English capital native ex- Northern Ireland youth international said when asked about being on the candidate list.
"It's not something I have given any thought to, or where any part of my focus is currently.
"I possess a special position here at a remarkable club. And we're at a crucial phase of the season. Anything external hasn't touched my radar."
Background and Agreement Details
It has been suggested 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 asked about those. "I don't think all people has to go around and announce what they were, but naturally it's a massive sports organization."
McKenna signed a new four-year contract in last year and was questioned about his alleged buyout clause.
"In every manager's contract, there are provisions," he replied. "I don't know what my specific terms are and, if I did, I wouldn't tell you anyway!
"I approach this job like I'll be Ipswich manager forever. I understand that's not invariably going to be the situation, but I will consistently give maximum effort as while I am here."
The Welsh Coach's Position
Bellamy played for Celtic on loan from the Magpies in 2005, but the former Wales striker is minded to finish the current global tournament qualification, a stance 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 group toppers the Red Devils and second-placed Macedonia.
Wins over the minnows and their rivals in next month would book their place in the qualification play-offs, but they are all but guaranteed of making those, due to a productive Nations League campaign, even if they fail to finish as Group J runners-up.
Given his present stance, Bellamy, whose agreement expires after Euro 2028, would be unavailable until after the qualifying matches at the earliest.
Important Points
- Ipswich's manager refutes any talks with the Scottish club
- The coach emphasizes commitment to his current club
- Craig Bellamy concentrated on World Cup campaign
- Each coaches linked with Celtic position
- The Welsh coach not free until after tournament matches