Zero McKenna Celtic FC Discussions as Craig Bellamy Pledges to Wales

Football Managerial News

Kieran McKenna and Craig Bellamy have been connected with the Scottish champions manager position

Ipswich Town's Kieran McKenna declares he has had "no discussions" with Celtic about their coaching position, while Welsh head coach Craig Bellamy is dedicated to seeing out his squad's World Cup campaign.

Both are being considered with the manager's job at the Premiership title holders following Brendan Rodgers' resignation on Monday.

The Manager's Stance on The Scottish Club

McKenna referred to Celtic as "a really big soccer institution" but stressed he is "in the middle" of a "long-term project" with Ipswich Town.

The 39-year-old took charge of Portman Road in recent years and led them to the Premier League with consecutive elevations, but they won just a handful of victories last campaign as they were relegated back to the Championship and they currently sit twelfth place in England's second tier.

"There have been such conversations," the English capital native former Irish youth international said when asked about being on the candidate list.

"It's not something I have considered seriously, or where any portion of my focus is currently.

"I possess a unique job here at a special club. And we're at a really important stage of the campaign. Anything external hasn't reached my awareness."

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 preferences," he said when questioned about these. "It's unlikely everyone has to go around and declare what they used to be, but naturally it's a massive football club."

McKenna agreed to a fresh multi-year deal in 2024 and was asked about his alleged £5m release clause.

"Throughout coaching agreements, there are provisions," he responded. "I'm unaware what mine are and, were I informed, I wouldn't tell you regardless!

"I tackle this job like I will remain Town's coach forever. I know that's not invariably going to be the case, but I will consistently do my best as while I remain in position."

Bellamy's Position

The former striker played for the Hoops on temporary transfer from the Magpies in 2005, but the former Welsh forward is minded to finish the ongoing global tournament campaign, a stance that would effectively rule out the 46-year-old from assuming the Glasgow position.

Wales are currently third in their World Cup group behind leaders Belgium and runners-up North Macedonia.

Victories over the minnows and their rivals in next month would secure their place in the qualification play-offs, but they are virtually guaranteed of reaching that stage, thanks to a productive European competition campaign, should they fail to end up Group J runners-up.

Given his current stance, the Wales manager, whose contract expires after the European Championship, would be unavailable until following the qualifying matches at the earliest.

Key Highlights

  • Ipswich's manager refutes any conversations with the Scottish club
  • The coach emphasizes commitment to Ipswich Town
  • Wales' manager concentrated on international qualification
  • Each managers connected with the Glasgow position
  • Bellamy not free until post tournament qualifiers
Dominique Park
Dominique Park

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