No McKenna Celtic FC Discussions as Craig Bellamy Commits to Wales
Ipswich's manager and Wales head coach have been connected with the Celtic vacancy
Ipswich Town's Kieran McKenna says he has had "no discussions" with the Glasgow club about their managerial vacancy, while Wales head coach the former striker is dedicated to completing his team's international campaign.
Both have been linked with the manager's job at the Premiership title holders following the former manager's resignation on the start of the week.
The Manager's Stance on Celtic
The Ipswich boss described Celtic as "an enormous football club" but stressed he is "deeply involved" of a "extensive rebuilding" with the Championship side.
The mid-thirties took charge of Ipswich in 2021 and led them to the Premier League with back-to-back promotions, but they managed only a handful of victories last campaign as they were demoted back to the Championship and they presently occupy twelfth place in the Championship.
"There have been such discussions," the English capital native former Irish young player said when questioned about being on the candidate list.
"It's not something I have considered seriously, or where any part of my focus is this week.
"I have a unique job here at a remarkable club. And we're at a really important stage of the season. Everything external hasn't touched my awareness."
Background and Contractual Aspects
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 asked about these. "I don't think all people has to go around and declare what they used to be, but of course it's a really big sports organization."
The coach signed a fresh multi-year deal in 2024 and was asked about his reported buyout clause.
"Throughout coaching agreements, there are things," he replied. "I'm unaware what mine are and, if I did, I wouldn't disclose you anyway!
"I tackle this role like I will remain Town's coach indefinitely. I understand that's not invariably going to be the situation, but I will consistently give maximum effort as long as I remain in position."
The Welsh Coach's Situation
Bellamy represented the Hoops on temporary transfer from the Magpies in 2005, but the ex- Welsh striker is minded to finish the ongoing World Cup qualification, a position that would practically eliminate the mid-forties from assuming the Celtic job.
The Welsh squad are presently third in their World Cup group behind group toppers the Red Devils and runners-up Macedonia.
Victories over Liechtenstein and North Macedonia in November would book their place in the final qualifying round, but they are all but guaranteed of making those, due to a successful Nations League campaign, even if they fail to end up their group second place.
Given his current stance, Bellamy, whose agreement expires after Euro 2028, would be unavailable until after the play-offs at the minimum.
Important Points
- Ipswich's manager refutes any conversations with Celtic
- McKenna stresses commitment to his current club
- Craig Bellamy focused on international campaign
- Each coaches linked with Celtic vacancy
- Bellamy unavailable until post tournament matches