Zero McKenna Celtic FC Talks as Bellamy Commits to Wales
Ipswich's manager and Wales head coach have been linked with the Celtic vacancy
The Championship club's Kieran McKenna states he has had "zero discussions" with Celtic about their coaching position, while Wales head coach Craig Bellamy is committed to seeing out his squad's international campaign.
Each have been linked with the manager's job at the Scottish champions following Brendan Rodgers' resignation on the start of the week.
The Manager's Stance on The Scottish Club
McKenna described Celtic as "a really big football club" but emphasized he is "in the middle" of a "extensive rebuilding" with the Championship side.
The mid-thirties assumed control of Portman Road in recent years and led them to the English top flight with back-to-back promotions, but they won just a handful of victories last season as they were demoted back to the Championship and they currently sit twelfth place in the Championship.
"I have not had any of those discussions," the London-born former Irish young player said when questioned about being on Celtic's shortlist.
"This isn't a matter I have considered seriously, or where any part of my concentration is currently.
"I have a special job here at a remarkable team. And we're at a crucial phase of the season. Everything external hasn't reached my awareness."
Context and Contractual Details
Reports indicate that McKenna would be open to speaking to Celtic given his childhood support.
"During youth, 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 used to be, but of course it's a massive football club."
McKenna signed a new multi-year deal in last year and was questioned about his reported £5m release clause.
"In every manager's contract, there are things," he replied. "I don't know what my specific terms are and, if I did, I wouldn't tell you anyway!
"I approach this role like I'll be Town's coach indefinitely. I know that's not invariably going to be the case, but I will consistently give maximum effort as while I am here."
The Welsh Coach's Situation
The former striker represented Celtic on loan from the Magpies in 2005, but the ex- Wales striker is minded to finish the current global tournament qualification, a position that would practically eliminate the 46-year-old from assuming the Glasgow position.
The Welsh squad are presently in third place in their qualifying group behind leaders Belgium and runners-up North Macedonia.
Wins over Liechtenstein and North Macedonia in next month would secure their position in the final qualifying round, but they are virtually guaranteed of reaching that stage, due to a successful Nations League performance, even if they fail to finish as Group J runners-up.
Considering his present position, the Wales manager, whose agreement expires after the European Championship, would not be available until following the play-offs at the minimum.
Key Points
- Kieran McKenna refutes any talks with Celtic
- The coach emphasizes commitment to Ipswich Town
- Craig Bellamy focused on international campaign
- Both managers connected with Celtic position
- Bellamy unavailable until after tournament matches