Zero Kieran McKenna Celtic Discussions as Bellamy Pledges to Welsh National Team
Ipswich's manager and Craig Bellamy have been connected with the Celtic vacancy
The Championship club's their manager says he has had "no discussions" with the Glasgow club about their coaching position, while Wales national team manager Craig Bellamy is dedicated to seeing out his team's World Cup campaign.
Each are being considered with the coaching position at the Scottish champions following Brendan Rodgers' resignation on Monday.
McKenna's Position on Celtic
The Ipswich boss described Celtic as "an enormous soccer institution" but emphasized he is "deeply involved" of a "long-term project" with the Championship side.
The mid-thirties assumed control of Portman Road in 2021 and led them to the English top flight with back-to-back promotions, but they managed only four games last campaign as they were demoted back to the Championship and they presently occupy 12th in the Championship.
"There have been any of those conversations," the English capital native ex- Northern Ireland young player said when asked about being on Celtic's shortlist.
"It's not something I have considered seriously, or where any part of my concentration is currently.
"I possess a special job here at a remarkable club. And we're at a really important phase of the campaign. Everything external hasn't touched my awareness."
Context and Contractual Aspects
Reports indicate that McKenna would be open to speaking to the Scottish side given his boyhood allegiances.
"Growing up, we all have our affinities," he said when asked about these. "I don't think everyone has to publicly and announce what they used to be, but naturally it's a really big football club."
McKenna agreed to a fresh multi-year deal in 2024 and was questioned about his alleged £5m release clause.
"In every manager's contract, there are things," he responded. "I'm unaware what my specific terms are and, if I did, I wouldn't tell you anyway!
"I approach this job like I will remain Town's coach forever. I understand that's not always going to be the case, but I'll always do my best as while I remain in position."
The Welsh Coach's Position
Bellamy represented the Hoops on temporary transfer from the Magpies in 2005, but the former Welsh striker is inclined to finish the ongoing global tournament campaign, a position that would effectively rule out the mid-forties from immediately taking the Celtic job.
Wales are currently third in their World Cup group behind group toppers Belgium and second-placed Macedonia.
Victories over Liechtenstein and their rivals in next month would book their place in the qualification play-offs, but they are all but assured of making those, due to a productive Nations League performance, even if they fail to end up Group J runners-up.
Given his present stance, Bellamy, whose contract expires after the European Championship, would be unavailable until after the qualifying matches at the earliest.
Important Points
- Kieran McKenna refutes any talks with Celtic
- McKenna emphasizes commitment to his current club
- Craig Bellamy focused on international qualification
- Both coaches linked with Celtic vacancy
- Bellamy not free until post tournament qualifiers
