No McKenna Celtic Discussions as Bellamy Pledges to Welsh National Team
Kieran McKenna and Craig Bellamy have been connected with the Celtic vacancy
Ipswich Town's Kieran McKenna states he has had "no discussions" with the Glasgow club about their managerial vacancy, while Welsh national team manager Craig Bellamy is dedicated to seeing out his squad's international campaign.
Both are being considered with the manager's job at the Premiership title holders following Brendan Rodgers' departure on Monday.
The Manager's Position on The Scottish Club
McKenna referred to Celtic as "an enormous football club" but stressed he is "deeply involved" of a "long-term project" with the Championship side.
The mid-thirties assumed control of Portman Road in 2021 and guided the team to the English top flight with consecutive elevations, but they won just a handful of victories last season as they were demoted back to the second division and they currently sit 12th in England's second tier.
"I have not had such discussions," the London-born ex- Irish youth international said when questioned about being on the candidate list.
"This isn't a matter I have considered seriously, or where any portion of my concentration is currently.
"I possess a unique position here at a remarkable team. And we're at a really important phase of the campaign. Anything outside of that hasn't touched my awareness."
Background and Agreement Aspects
It has been suggested that McKenna would be open to speaking to the Scottish side given his childhood support.
"During youth, we all have our affinities," he said when questioned about those. "I don't think everyone has to publicly and declare what they used to be, but of course it's a really big sports organization."
McKenna agreed to a fresh four-year contract in last year and was asked about his reported buyout clause.
"In every manager's contract, there are provisions," he responded. "I'm unaware what my specific terms are and, were I informed, I wouldn't tell you anyway!
"I approach this job like I will remain Ipswich manager indefinitely. I know that's not always going to be the situation, but I'll always do my best as while I am here."
Bellamy's Situation
Bellamy represented Celtic on temporary transfer from Newcastle United in the mid-2000s, but the former Wales forward is inclined to finish the ongoing World Cup campaign, a position that would practically eliminate the mid-forties from assuming the Celtic job.
Wales are presently third in their qualifying group behind group toppers the Red Devils and runners-up Macedonia.
Victories over the minnows and their rivals in November would secure their position in the qualification play-offs, but they are all but assured of making those, thanks to a productive European competition campaign, even if they fail to end up their group second place.
Given his current position, Bellamy, whose agreement concludes after Euro 2028, would be unavailable until after the qualifying matches at the earliest.
Important Points
- Ipswich's manager refutes any talks with Celtic
- McKenna emphasizes dedication to his current club
- Wales' manager concentrated on international qualification
- Each coaches connected with the Glasgow vacancy
- Bellamy unavailable until after World Cup matches