No Kieran McKenna Celtic FC Discussions as Bellamy Pledges to Welsh National Team
Ipswich's manager and Wales head coach have been connected with the Scottish champions manager position
Ipswich Town's their manager states he has had "zero discussions" with Celtic about their managerial vacancy, while Welsh national team manager Craig Bellamy is dedicated to completing his squad's international campaign.
Each are being considered with the coaching position at the Premiership title holders following Brendan Rodgers' 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 "in the middle" of a "long-term project" with the Championship side.
The mid-thirties assumed control of Ipswich in recent years and led them to the Premier League with consecutive elevations, but they won just a handful of victories last season as they were relegated back to the second division and they currently sit twelfth place in England's second tier.
"There have been such discussions," the London-born ex- Northern Ireland youth international said when questioned about being on the candidate list.
"This isn't a matter I have given any thought to, or where any portion of my concentration is currently.
"I possess a unique job here at a remarkable team. And we're at a really important phase of the season. Anything outside of that hasn't touched my awareness."
Context and Agreement Details
It has been suggested that the manager would be open to speaking to Celtic given his childhood support.
"During youth, we all have our affinities," he said when asked about those. "It's unlikely everyone has to publicly and declare what they were, but of course it's a really big football club."
The coach agreed to a new four-year contract in 2024 and was questioned about his alleged buyout clause.
"Throughout coaching agreements, there are things," he replied. "I don't know what mine are and, were I informed, I wouldn't disclose you anyway!
"I approach this role like I'll be Town's coach indefinitely. I know that's not always going to be the case, but I'll always give maximum effort as long as I remain in position."
The Welsh Coach's Position
The former striker represented Celtic on temporary transfer from Newcastle United in 2005, but the ex- Welsh striker is minded to complete the current global tournament campaign, a position that would practically eliminate the 46-year-old from assuming the Celtic job.
Wales are currently third in their qualifying group behind group toppers the Red Devils and second-placed North Macedonia.
Victories over Liechtenstein and North Macedonia in November would secure their place in the qualification play-offs, but they are virtually guaranteed of making those, due to a productive Nations League performance, even if they fail to end up Group J runners-up.
Considering his current position, the Wales manager, whose contract expires after Euro 2028, would be unavailable until after the play-offs at the minimum.
Key Highlights
- Kieran McKenna denies having talks with Celtic
- The coach stresses dedication to his current club
- Craig Bellamy concentrated on international campaign
- Both managers connected with the Glasgow vacancy
- The Welsh coach not free until post World Cup qualifiers